Rain lashes parts of Odisha, Bengal ahead of cyclone Yaas landfall

Rain lashed parts of West Bengal and Odisha ahead of cyclone Yass that is expected to be make a landfall on Wednesday. Digha, East Medinipur in West Bengal and Chandipur in Odisha's Balasore have been receiving heavy rainfall since early morning hours.

Cyclone Yaas over Bay of Bengal intensified to a severe cyclonic storm on Monday night, according to India Meteorological Department. Cyclone Yaas, which is bearing down on Bengal and Odisha from the Bay of Bengal, will make landfall near Balasore coast in Odisha. The weather department has warned of 165 kmph winds & heavy rain.

Balasore, Bhadrak, Mayurbhanj and Keonjhar are expected to be worst hit, IMD said. Extensive damage is very likely along Bengal coast as well.

The eastern states are on high alert. NDRF teams have been deployed, evacuation work has already begun in both West Bengal and Odisha ahead of the landfall.