Deep depression: Alert issued in South Gujarat

An alert has been issued in the districts of South Gujarat by state officials following a warning of deep depression in the Arabian Sea that is likely to convert into a cyclonic circulation and hit South Gujarat coast.

Fisherman have been advised not to go in the sea and ports in the region have been asked to put alert signals.

"We have issued warning to all the coastal villages to remain on high alert following the warning about deep depression in the Arabian sea," Surat district officials said.

Valsad district today received unseasonal rains. District administration has also issued alert on the coastal villages, officials said.

The state meteorological department said, "Latest satellite and coastal observations indicate that a deep depression lies centred at east central Arabian Sea."

"The system is likely to intensify further into a cyclonic storm and move in the northern direction for some time and then north-northeastwards, and cross south Gujarat and north coast between Mahuva and Dahanu by early hours of 12th November, 2009," the MeT said.

According to the MeT department, light to moderate rains are likely to occur at isolated places in South Gujarat in the next 24 hours.