A powerful cyclone slammed into the coast of eastern India and Bangladesh on Wednesday, with winds gusting up to 185 kmph.
According to the Indian weather bureau, Cyclone Amphan had begun moving inland at 3:00 pm (local time).
Power outages have been reported in the Indian states of Odisha and West Bengal as strong winds tore off roofs and uprooted trees.
Officials in both countries have admitted to facing challenges in carrying out evacuation procedures while maintaining social distancing protocols to fight the coronavirus pandemic.
Around 2.4 million people in the most vulnerable districts of Bangladesh have been moved to more than 15,000 storm shelters.
Meanwhile, officials in India said extra shelters were prepared in markets and government buildings, and ensured masks were distributed to villagers.


Trump says operation to reopen Strait of Hormuz will be 'paused'
Ukraine says Russia violated ceasefire initiated by Kyiv
Hantavirus-hit cruise ship to head to Spain after being granted permission
Russian attacks kill 27 before deadline for ceasefire proposed by Kyiv
Eight dead in fire at shopping centre west of Tehran, Iranian media say
