Cyclone Murasu makes landfall along Andhra Pradesh coast
Heavy rains have caused waterlogging in Vijayawada as the severe cyclonic storm hits the coast near Ongole.
Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu made landfall near Kothapatnam in Prakasam district, close to Ongole, at 1 am on Tuesday, according to ANI and The Hindu. The landfall process was expected to continue until 6.30 am.
Heavy rainfall lashed Vijayawada, causing waterlogging on major roads such as Bandar Road, Polyclinic Road, and several areas in One Town. The downpour began late Monday night and continued into the early hours of Tuesday, disrupting movement for commuters.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, with gusts reaching 120 kmph. The weather bureau also predicted a storm surge of 1.0-1.5 metres above the astronomical tide, which could inundate low-lying areas in south coastal Andhra Pradesh.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the situation with district officials at 3.30 am. He directed officials to take precautions to prevent loss of life and property damage.
Energy department officials informed the Chief Minister that no electricity poles had fallen and there were no power disruptions.
District Collectors reported various conditions. The Bapatla Collector noted heavy rain in Repalle, Chirala, and Vetapalem, while the Nellore Collector reported moderate rainfall. In Krishna district, heavy rain was recorded in Avanigadda and Nagayalanka.
The NTR district Collector said light showers occurred in several places, and some families were moved to relief camps as a precaution against possible landslides at Mogalrajpuram.