Rains and strong gales hit Nellore in Andhra Pradesh and other neighbouring districts of Tamil Nadu under the influence of cyclonic storm Nilam. The cyclone is expected to make a landfall this evening between Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu and Nellore, bringing in heavy rains in the region with tide expected to reach levels of 1.5 meters.

The Andhra Pradesh Government has put administration of the coastal districts under alert to face the situation and made arrangements accordingly.

Revenue Minister N Raghuveera Reddy on Tuesday said the impact in South-costal Andhra was unlikely to be as severe as was being feared.

He spoke to officials of various districts yesterday to ensure that the local administration was geared up to face the situation.