NEW DELHI: India Meteorological Department (IMD) Friday said deep depression in the Bay of Bengal is likely to develop into a cyclonic storm in the next 12 hours and head toward the south Odisha-north Andhra coast.

According to IMD, due to its impact, heavy rainfall accompanied by gusty winds are likely to hit many areas of coastal regions in the states.

“A cyclonic storm ‘Jawad’ formed over west-central Bay of Bengal at 11:30 hours (local time) today (9 a.m. in Manila).

It is very likely to reach west-central Bay of Bengal off north Andhra Pradesh-south Odisha coasts by tomorrow,” IMD in a statement said.

“Thereafter, it is likely to recurve north-northeastwards and move along Odisha coast reaching near Puri around December 5 noon.”

Reports said local governments of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh are fully geared up to tackle the impact of the impending cyclonic storm.

Meanwhile, India’s National Disaster Response Force has earmarked 64 teams to tackle the impending cyclonic storm.

On Thursday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting to review preparedness to deal with Cyclone Jawad.

Modi directed officials to take all necessary measures to ensure the safe evacuation of people.

Cyclone Jawad is also likely to cause heavy rainfall in the coastal districts of West Bengal.