Karnataka on high alert as Cyclone Nivar nears Tamil Nadu

MYSURU/BENGALURU: With Cyclone Nivar hurtling towards neighbouring Tamil Nadu, the Karnataka government has sounded a high alert in all districts, particularly Bengaluru city.
Chief minister BS Yediyurappa, who is on a tour of Mysuru since Tuesday, said the authorities concerned have been asked to be on their toes for any eventuality. He has instructed the state machinery in south and coastal Karnataka to be prepared, instructing officials to set up relief and rehabilitation camps if required.
“We can’t stop the cyclone.But we can take preventive steps to avoid maximum damage. The authorities have been directed to be on alert in coastal areas and places close to Tamil Nadu,” the CM added.
There are strong indications that Bengaluru, its adjoining districts and coastal Karnataka will witness heavy rainfall, the authorities said.
However, officials in the revenue department who are monitoring the situation said: “Though the cyclone is not going to have a major impact in the state, it will affect areas closer to Tamil Nadu. Inclement weather is expected to prevail on Thursday and Friday and preparatory measures should be in place.”
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has already issued a yellow alert in Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Chikkaballapura, Tumakuru, Mandya and Ramanagara districts for three days starting Thursday. “South-interior Karnataka is very likely to experience light to moderate scattered rainfall on Thursday and Friday and isolated rainfall on Saturday and Sunday,” said C S Patil, IMD director, Bengaluru.
Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea for two days,and those who are out are being advised to reach a harbour at the earliest.