Union Science and Technology Minister Harshvardhan on Monday said people have to remain cautious over the next 24 to 36 hours as the government counter the 'Cyclone Vardah'.


"We have to remain cautious and ensure that we are vigilant for the next 24 to 36 hours," he said adding that the Centre and Tamil Nadu government, besides related agencies, are on alert.


Harshvardhan added that the storm is likely to strike off the Chennai coast and will affect the northern parts of Tamil Nadu (Thiruvellur district), and the southern portion of Andhra Pradesh (Nellore district) with a wind speed of 110 kilometres per hour between 2 p.m. to 5 pm.


"Minor damages like the breaking of trees may occur. We would advise the people, especially, the fishermen to stop their work near the shore for the next 24 to 36 hours," he said, adding that people near coastal areas should be shifted to safer places.


Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam on Monday reviewed the state government's preparation to counter 'Cyclone Vardah'.The chief minister also requested the people not to venture out of their houses between 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.The state government has reportedly evacuated at least 7357 people to 54 relief centres.