Cyclonic storm Biparjoy to cross Saurashtra & Kutch coast in Gujarat on Thursday

Extremely severe cyclonic storm Biparjoy is likely to cross Saurashtra and Kutch coast in Gujarat on Thursday. The India Meteorological Department has warned that the areas will witness wind speed reaching 125-135 kmph gusting to 150 kmph.

The MeT Department issued a yellow alert for Saurashtra and Kutch coasts in Gujarat after Cyclone Biparjoy intensified into an "extremely severe cyclonic storm".

In view of this, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla reviewed the preparedness of different wings of the central government and Gujarat administration, officials said.

Adequate numbers of teams and assets of the National Disaster Response Force, Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard are being deployed to assist the Gujarat government in their preparedness, rescue, and restoration efforts.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the open sea till the system is over, as the sea conditions may get very rough accompanied by high tides along the coast.

Mumbai is also experiencing heavy rainfall following an escalation of the storm. Inclement weather conditions have forced the closure of a Runway at Mumbai airport, resulting in delays and cancellation of some flights.