Cyclone predicted to hit coronavirus ravaged Mumbai

India's financial capital Mumbai is bracing for a severe cyclone which could hit its coast today, according to local authorities.

Cyclone Nisarga is predicted to reach India's west coast, in the city formally known as Bombay, and neighbouring state Gujarat is also likely to be affected.

The storm comes just two weeks after Cyclone Amphan left destruction in its path along India's east coast, killing more than 85 people in eastern India and Bangladesh.

India's National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) told local media that they are working towards a "zero casualties" approach to Cyclone Nisarga, which will be the first cyclone to hit Mumbai in centuries.

"Since the cyclone is in the severe category, the damage it can cause is considerable," Director General SM Pradhan said.

"We are working for the best but preparing for the worst."

Authorities have started to evacuate residents from low-lying areas in Mumbai and surrounds, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray said.

Fisherman have also been called in from sea, the area placed in "red alert" with storm surges expected.

Mumbai is already experiencing heavy rains, strong winds and vicious tides; however, authorities are still unclear of the exact path the storm will take.

The impact of coronavirus in Mumbai has complicated cyclone preparation measures, according to officials.

More than 50,000 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the city, making it India's worst impacted by infections.

The 20 million population of Mumbai has put the healthcare system at breaking point, with the onset of heavy rains predicted to trigger other illnesses such as malaria, typhoid, gastric infection and leptospirosis.