Cyclone Murasu makes landfall along Andhra Pradesh coast
Heavy rainfall and high-speed winds have caused waterlogging in Vijayawada and uprooted trees in several districts.
Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu made landfall near Kothapatnam, close to Ongole, at 1 am on Tuesday, according to The Indian Express. The storm brought extremely heavy rainfall and winds reaching 150 kmph to the Andhra Pradesh coast.
The downpour, which started late Monday night, caused significant waterlogging on major roads in Vijayawada, including Polyclinic Road and Bandar Road. Areas in One Town also experienced flooding, disrupting movement for commuters.
In the districts of Nellore, Prakasam, and Bapatla, hundreds of trees were uprooted by the storm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the cyclone's eye was entering the coast, with the landfall process occurring between Nellore and Narsapur.
The IMD forecast wind speeds of 100-110 kmph, with gusts reaching 120 kmph, and a storm surge of 1.0-1.5 metres above the astronomical tide. This surge is expected to inundate low-lying areas in south coastal Andhra Pradesh, with peak levels predicted for Bapatla, Krishna, and Prakasam districts.
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu held a teleconference with district collectors and officials at 3.30 am to review the situation. He instructed that people should avoid roads in affected areas until all obstructions are cleared.
Electricity department officials stated that power supply has not been disrupted and no poles have fallen so far. Officials expect the cyclone to cross the coast by 6.30 am.