Weather officials in India say a cyclone formation in the Arabian Sea, presently at least 500 Km from the Mumbai coast, is moving towards the western Indian state of Gujarat and is expected to reach the coast by June 15.

The cyclone named Biporjoy was predicted to be headed towards the Pakistan coast earlier but now has changed direction. Weather officials say heavy wind resulting in 2-3 meter storm surges and flooding is expected in coastal Gujarat.

The local officials are reviewing the cyclone preparedness of coastal districts and have started to evacuate people living in the low-lying areas.

Thousands have been moved to temporary shelters in various coastal towns and villages in Gujarat. CVG: Kamal avail from Karac.

Aljazeera.