The cyclonic storm ‘Lehar’ over west-central Bay of Bengal after weakening into a deep depression crossed Andhra Pradesh coast near south of Machilipatnam this afternoon. It has further weakened and lay centred over Machilipatnam.

South coastal districts of Nellore, Prakasam, Guntur, Krishna, besides West and East Godavari districts are receiving moderate rainfall. A spell of heavy to very heavy fall may occur at one or two places.

Weather office has warned that squally winds with speeds reaching 45-55 kmph and gusting to 65 kmph would prevail along and off Andhra Pradesh during next 12 hours. Though the cyclone has weakened into deep depression, authorities have been asked to keep a close watch on the weather conditions for next 12 hours. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea for the next 24 hours as the state of the sea along and off Andhra Pradesh coast would be rough to very rough.

Under the influence of the system rainfall at most places with isolated heavy falls would occur over coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam district of Puducherry during next 24 hours. Rainfall at many places with isolated heavy falls would also occur over Telangana during next 36 hours.

Even as the intensity of cyclone has reduced Indian Air Force has positioned two Chetak Helicopters at Vishakhapatnam Airport for rescue operations.

A release from Indian Air Force in Bangalore says that the arrangement is made on the request of Andhra Pradesh Government. The Helicopters will drop food and other essential items during the rescue operations in the adjoining district of East Godavari and West Godavari and surrounding areas.

Along with Chetaks, fixed wing aircraft and helicopters have been kept on standby to meet any eventualities.