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There's nothing like India for unusual situations, and once again I'm finding myself in a situation I've never experienced before. I'm in Mumbai and waiting for a cyclone to hit the city.
According to the Meteorological Department, Cyclone Phyan will arrive in Mumbai late this evening. The cyclone is currently heading north east, and is expected to cross the South Gujarat and North Maharashtra coast, between Alibag (Maharashtra) and Valsad (Gujarat).
It's been raining in Mumbai for two days now. However, looking out my window, there's currently a break in the rain and certainly no signs of the cyclone's impending devastation. News reports paint a different picture though. Further down the Maharastran coast, strong winds and high waves have overturned boats. Many fishermen are missing.
The coastal areas of Mumbai, including Juhu, Versova, Cuffe Parade, Colaba, and Worli are expected to suffer the worst damage in the cyclone. If possible, these areas should be avoided during the next 24 hours. If you are in these areas, try to stay indoors. Some other areas of Mumbai are already waterlogged, and many flights have also been delayed.
The cyclone is very unseasonal and unexpected at this time of year. The monsoon has passed, and normally Mumbai experiences dry, hot, and sunny days during November.
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