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Cyclone warning issued for Indian city of Chennai

A severe cyclone bringing 150-200mm of rain and wind gusts of up to 90mph has triggered a travel alert for Chennai in India.

At least seven people are reported to have been killed and more than 15,000 evacuated from coastal areas as a result of Cyclone Vardah making landfall yesterday.

Schools and businesses were shut and airport services suspended as the cyclone made landfall with heavy rain and high winds across three southern Indian states.

Winds were so strong that glass panels were torn from the facade of Chennai’s Hyatt-Regency hotel, the BBC reported.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office said in an updated travel advisory: “Cyclonic Storm Vardah is forecast to bring hazardous sea and weather conditions to parts of the east coast of India including Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

“If you require emergency services you should contact +91 44 42192151 and follow instructions.”

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