CHENNAI, Dec 31 (AlertNet) - At least 33 people died when Cyclone Thane hit coastal southern India near the former French colony of Pondicherry, officials said on Saturday, causing thousands to evacuate and damaging roads, buildings and power lines.
Thane hit Tamil Nadu state on Friday with winds of up to 135 kmph (83 mph) and tidal surges of up to 1.5 meters (5 feet). About 6,000 coastal villagers were forced to seek safety in relief shelters, the state's Chief Minister J Jayalalitha said.