5 killed as Cyclone Arnab makes landfall in India: Report

At least five people were killed as Cyclone Arnab made landfall along the coast of India's southern Andhra Pradesh state early Wednesday, local media reported.

The deaths were reported in Vizag, Anakapalle, Kakinada, Konaseema and West Godavari districts, according to local broadcaster NDTV.

Some of the victims were electrocuted, while others were struck by falling trees, the broadcaster said.

In its update, the India Meteorological Department said: "The landfall process has been completed, with the central region moving completely onto land."

The department said the cyclone crossed the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts as a "very severe" cyclonic storm, with maximum sustained winds of 125-135 kilometers per hour (77-83 mph), gusting to 150 km/h (93 mph).

The storm subsequently weakened into a "severe" cyclonic storm, according to the department.

Authorities evacuated more than 180,000 people in Andhra Pradesh and the neighboring eastern state of Odisha as the cyclone brought heavy rain to several districts.

Strong winds uprooted trees and damaged local infrastructure, causing widespread disruption.

Several airlines canceled flights to Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday.

Authorities in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha also ordered schools to close as a precautionary measure.

Fishing activities were suspended, while rescue teams remained on standby to respond to emergencies.

The administration of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands also ordered schools to remain closed for two days beginning Tuesday.