Ockhi, the deep depression formed over the Indian Ocean, on Thursday, turned into cyclone, causing various agencies to issue travel alerts. The cyclone is likely to turn into a severe cyclonic storm in 24 hours, warned skymetweather.com, a private forecast agency.

Reports of widespread damage due to heavy wind and rain have started coming from Thiruvananthapuram. Fallen trees and electric posts have caused damages and low-lying areas in the district are flooded. So far, cyclone Ockhi has claimed one life in Kerala.

Avoid traveling to Lakshadweep, Kanyakimari in Tamil Nadu and Kerala's coastal districts like Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Ernakulam. If you have already reached your destination, then stay indoors and stock up on provisions. Though the cyclone is moving 120km off Thiruvananthapuram and these areas are not directly on its path, the severity of the cyclone, which is presently traveling at 72.23 km/h (39kt), could have a life-threatening effect. Travellers have been asked to exercise caution in the elevated parts of Idukki. The place could throw up landslips and mud run-offs, sources said. Travel to Munnar should also be avoided.

Must read: Cyclone Ockhi heading towards Kerala: all you need to know

Restrictions imposed

• Ban on tourists visiting hilly regions and water bodies

• No boating, trekking, and adventure sports

• District administrations asked to stock essential medicines, including for foreign tourists

• Special alert sounded in Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram, Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta

Alert for Sabarimala pilgrims

• No travel to the hill shrine from 6 pm to 7 am

• Avoid using the forest path till the alert is lifted

• Those at Sannidhanam and Pamba should be ready to stay put if authorities ask them to do so

• Do not rest near trees, waterbodies

• No bathing in rivers, ponds

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