Cyclone Murasu hits Andhra Pradesh coast with heavy rain and wind
The severe cyclonic storm made landfall near Ongole on Tuesday, causing uprooted trees and flooding in several coastal districts.
Severe cyclonic storm Murasu crossed the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapur between 3.30 a.m. and 8.30 a.m. on Tuesday, according to The Hindu. The storm brought wind speeds of 100-110 kmph with gusts reaching 120 kmph. While the storm caused damage to crops, electricity poles, and trees, no loss of life has been reported.
The India TV reported that the cyclone made landfall near Ongole in Prakasam district. Heavy rainfall has inundated low-lying areas, and at Suryalanka beach, seawater moved approximately 50 metres inland. In Samatha Nagar, Ongole, several thatched houses collapsed due to the weather.
Widespread rain was recorded in Prakasam, Bapatla, Palnadu, Krishna, Eluru, and West Godavari. Since Monday, the state recorded an average rainfall of 20.38 cm, with Bapatla receiving 21 cm and Prakasam receiving 20 cm. The rainfall has helped reduce the state's average rainfall deficit from 53 per cent to 28.9 per cent.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the situation from the Real-Time Governance Society Centre. He directed officials to prioritise preventing loss of life and to ensure electricity is restored promptly.
Naidu also contacted leaders in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to seek cooperation for restoration works.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that Murasu is expected to weaken into a deep depression by Tuesday midnight. Heavy rainfall is likely to continue in Bapatla, Guntur, and Prakasam districts until Wednesday morning.