Hudhud turns \\\'very severe\\\', ports cautioned

Cyclone Hudhud, which is moving in from the Bay of Bengal, has developed into a very severe cyclone, reports bdnews24.com.

The Meteorological Department said in a special weather bulletin Friday that the storm would reach up to a speed of 140 kilometres per hour near its centre.

While the cyclone itself is heading towards India, the Met office said squally weather would affect the north bay and the maritime ports.

It asked the ports to hoist local cautionary signal no. 3 (three) and advised vessels to remain near the coast and proceed carefully.

Reuters reported that Hudhud is likely to hit the coast of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha states on the morning of Oct 12.

India's weather office said the heavy rainfall and the strong winds would likely cause extensive damage to thatched homes, disrupt electricity and telecommunications services and affect road and rail traffic.

It warned of flooding and storm surges up to two metres (6.5 feet) in low-lying areas.