Machilipatnam

C. Parthasarathy, commissioner of the state disaster management department, said Lehar had weakened into a depression bringing moderate rain as it hit the city of Machilipatnam.

Last week, a less severe cyclone called Helen also hit Machilipatnam, killing three people.

Officials said they were keeping a close eye on the new cyclone as it has changed track from Wednesday, with the latest data showing it was expected to make landfall in Machilipatnam.

The port of Machilipatnam, 20 miles upriver, was destroyed.