Severe cyclonic storm Murasu has unleashed widespread destruction across coastal Andhra Pradesh after making landfall near Ongole today. Bringing ferocious 120 kmph gusts, the storm has left a heavy trail of structural and agricultural damage, prompting immediate emergency response and mass evacuations in the affected regions.
Landfall and Widespread Destruction
According to reports, the severe cyclonic storm crossed the Andhra coast, leaving an extensive path of devastation in south coastal Andhra Pradesh. The high-velocity winds, reaching up to 120 kmph, wreaked havoc on local infrastructure.
The storm uprooted thousands of trees and knocked down hundreds of electric poles. Fishing boats were heavily wrecked along the coastline, and vast swathes of standing crops suffered severe destruction.
Evacuation and Relief Operations
In response to the escalating crisis, emergency protocols were swiftly activated. Relief operations are actively underway, focusing on securing vulnerable populations.
Details on this aspect have not been reported yet regarding the total number of displaced persons in Andhra Pradesh, though neighboring regions have taken precautionary measures, over 1.6 lakh people were evacuated in Odisha as the state remains on high alert.
Outlook and IMD Forecasts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has provided a critical timeline for the dissipation of the weather system. Murasu was expected to weaken gradually into a cyclonic storm by noon, and further degrade into a deep depression by midnight today. While meteorological conditions show signs of de-escalation, local authorities continue to manage the aftermath of the severe weather event.