12 Oct 2018 | 10:34 AM UTC
India: Deaths reported in northeastern India due to Cyclone Titli /update 3
Cyclone Titli blamed for eight deaths in Andhra Pradesh as of October 11; localized travel disruptions and power outages in northeastern India to continue
Event
The India National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) maintains red alerts for the states of Odisha and the north coast of Andhra Pradesh through Thursday, October 11, and orange alerts for West Bengal and portions of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura through Saturday, October 13, due to heavy rainfall and high winds. Titli caused at least eight deaths in Andhra Pradesh. Nevertheless, damage to buildings and infrastructure in Odisha state is reportedly less severe than anticipated, with no reports of casualties. Disruptions to power and road travel caused by high winds and uprooted trees are expected to continue in the coming hours and days. Service on the South Eastern Railway Howrah-Hyderabad corridor remains disrupted and authorities have closed the NH-16 roadway to traffic.
Context
Tropical cyclones are common in the Bay of Bengal from May through December.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas should monitor local weather reports, confirm travel plans, avoid low-lying areas, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Remember that walking or driving through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater and chemical products; all items having come into contact with floodwater should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.
