Cyclone Vardah leaves trail of destruction in southern India

Authorities say the storm has already lost much of its intensity and will continue to weaken as it moves inwards.

Cyclone Vardah causes destruction in Tamil Nadu; expected to hit Karnataka
An aerial view shows a flooded residential colony in Chennai, India, December 6, 2015. Reuters

At least 12 people were killed in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh due to Cyclone Vardah that barrelled through India's southeast coast. The cyclone left a scene of devastation in south Indian city of Chennai, flattening homes, overturning vehicles, breaking billboards and snapping communication lines.

However, flights have resumed and power has been restored in the city. The Tamil Nadu government has ordered all educational institutions shut for the second day in Chennai, Kanchipuram and Tiruvallur districts.

Meanwhile, Vardah hit neighbouring state of Karnataka on Tuesday on its way to Goa on Wednesday. Experts said the region will receive moderate to heavy rainfall for the next two days.

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Skymetweather reported that the Met department said the storm has already lost much of its intensity and will continue to weaken as it moves inwards.

Tamil Nadu chief minister O Pannerselvam announced compensation for the victims of Cyclone Vardah. Reports said four people have died in Chennai, while two people died each in Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur, one in Villupuram and one in Nagapattinam.

IANS quoted officials as saying that two people have died in Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh. On Tuesday, authorities in Nellore district has declared holiday for educational institutions.

According to Pannerselvam, more than 10,000 people have been evacuated from near the sea. Nearly 9,000 people were moved to relief camps in Andhra Pradesh.

INS Shivalik and INS Kadmatt entered Chennai harbour on Tuesday morning and are offloading relief material.

Things you should not do after a cyclone

One should not enter the damaged buildings after a cyclone.

One should always be careful and watch out for broken poles, broken glasses, and sharp objects.

One should listen to the advice of local officials and emergency workers.

One should stay away from flooded and affected areas.

One should drink boiled water.

Do not use toilets if the water pipes are damaged.

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