Two die as Cyclone Murasu hits Andhra Pradesh and Odisha
Educational institutions have been closed in several districts as the storm causes significant damage to crops and infrastructure.
At least two people have died following cyclone-related incidents in Andhra Pradesh, according to the Indian Express. The storm, which weakened into a cyclonic storm on Tuesday afternoon, moved over South Coastal Andhra Pradesh with wind speeds of 80-90 kmph and gusts reaching 100 kmph.
Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) Managing Director Prakhar Jain stated that 12,230 individuals are currently staying in rehabilitation centres. Preliminary assessments indicate damage of Rs 344 crore, including the destruction of over 52,459 hectares of standing crops and 312 houses.
In Odisha, the state government has moved more than 1.65 lakh people to safety. Odisha Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said that 592 shelters are operational across southern districts, where schools and Anganwadi centres have been closed for Tuesday and Wednesday.
The storm has caused heavy rain in districts including Prakasam, Nellore, Bapatla, and NTR. Authorities have also moved residents from low-lying areas in Bapatla and NTR to shelters to prevent issues from potential landslides.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the impact. The state government has also released Rs 37 crore to 17 districts to fund relief operations and emergency expenses.