The cyclonic storm Ockhi has caused widespread rain in Tamil Nadu and Kerala and is heading towards Lakshadweep Islands. It has left eight people dead in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said, Ockhi has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and is very likely to continue to move west northwestwards across Lakshadweep Islands during next 24 hours.

It has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall over Lakshadweep, Kerala and interior Tamilnadu during next 24 hours.

Indian Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard launched a massive rescue operation off the Kerala coast to save hundreds of fishermen stranded in the rough sea following heavy rains and gusty winds due to Cyclone 'Ockhi. 

As heavy rain is continuing in northern parts of Kerala ,the cyclone Ockhi is reportedly moving towards Lakshadweep island. Met Dept's predicts strong winds and heavy rain in the coming 24 hours in Kerala and Lakshadweep .

Meanwhile, Southern districts of Tamil Nadu experienced torrential downpour in the last 24 hours leaving many villages submerged in Kanyakumari and Tirunelveli districts. Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Tuticorin and Madurai district administrations have declared holidays in schools and colleges.