Cyclone Murasu Hits Andhra Coast: Eye of Storm Touches Land
Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu makes landfall in Andhra Pradesh. CM Naidu orders high alert to prevent loss of life as winds hit 110 kmph.
The coast of southern Andhra Pradesh is currently grappling with the impact of Cyclone Murasu landfall, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that the eye of the severe cyclonic storm has officially touched the shoreline. The landfall process is ongoing, bringing volatile weather conditions to the region.
IMD Tracks the Storm's Progress
According to the latest updates from the IMD via X, the cyclone is currently positioned over the west-central Bay of Bengal, clinging to the south Andhra Pradesh coast. The weather agency noted that while the eye of the storm is touching the coast, parts of the cyclone's wall cloud have already penetrated inland in its forward sector.
To ensure precise tracking and timely warnings, the system is being monitored around the clock by Doppler Weather Radars stationed at Machilipatnam and Chennai.
High Alert in Andhra Pradesh
Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has stepped in to oversee the crisis, directing state officials to maintain a state of high alert. The primary objective, as stressed by the Chief Minister, is the absolute prevention of any loss of life.
The storm is expected to make its definitive landfall near Kothapatnam, located close to Ongole. During a teleconference with district administrators, the CM was briefed on the following expectations:
- Wind Speeds: Expected to reach between 100 and 110 kmph.
- Timing: Landfall was anticipated during the early hours of Tuesday.
Current Weather Conditions
Reports from the ground indicate varying levels of precipitation across the affected zones. While Nellore and the Kothapatnam coastal area have reported light drizzle, Ongole has experienced moderate rainfall.
Strict Directives for Public Safety
Chief Minister Naidu has issued a stern warning to residents in severely affected areas, instructing them to remain indoors until the storm has completely crossed the coast. He emphasized that the administration's top priority is the safety of the people.
To ensure information reaches the most remote areas, the CM has tasked staff at Swarna Ward and Swarna Grama offices with disseminating critical cyclone updates at the grassroots level.
The Chief Minister specifically referenced the tragedies of Cyclone Arnab, insisting that despite previous precautionary measures, lives were lost—a scenario he demanded must not be repeated during the onslaught of Murasu.
Infrastructure and Damage Control
Beyond the immediate safety of citizens, the state government is focusing on minimizing property damage. Specific instructions have been given to:
- Prevent breaches in irrigation tanks and canals.
- Keep electricity department personnel on standby for the immediate restoration of power poles and supply lines.
Although wind speeds for Cyclone Murasu are expected to be lower than those witnessed during Cyclone Arnab, the government remains cautious, ensuring all emergency protocols are active to mitigate the storm's impact.