Schools closed, thousands move to higher ground as cyclone roars toward southern India

NEW DELHI – Authorities in southern India say thousands of people have moved to higher ground and schools and colleges have closed as a cyclone roared in the Bay of Bengal toward coastal areas.

The India Meteorological Department says the cyclone with a wind speed of up to 90 kph (55 mph) is expected to hit the shore later Wednesday. It could cause a tide surge of up to 1.5 metres (5 feet) and flood low-lying areas of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh states.

Rain already has started lashing the region.

The meteorological department said in statement Wednesday that the cyclone is expected to damage thatched huts and uproot trees, knocking out power and communication lines in its path.

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