Severe cyclonic storm Murasu crossed the south Andhra Pradesh coast early Tuesday, triggering heavy rainfall, strong winds and widespread disruption across several coastal districts. Trees and electricity poles were uprooted in some areas, low-lying localities were inundated and agricultural crops suffered damage. Power supply was also disrupted in the affected regions. However, no loss of life has been reported so far.
Murasu Crosses Andhra Coast With Winds Up to 120 kmph
The severe cyclonic storm crossed the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapuram, close to the coast, between 3:30 AM and 5:30 AM on Tuesday. Wind speeds reached 100–110 kmph, with gusts of up to 120 kmph.
Widespread rainfall was recorded in Prakasam, Bapatla, Palnadu, Krishna, Eluru and West Godavari districts. Since Monday, Andhra Pradesh has recorded an average rainfall of 20.38 cm. Bapatla district received around 21 cm, while Prakasam recorded 20 cm.
Heavy rainfall is expected to continue in Bapatla, Guntur and Prakasam districts until Wednesday morning. Rough sea conditions were reported along the Bapatla coast due to strong waves. At Suryalanka Beach, seawater advanced nearly 50 metres inland.
Heavy Rainfall Alert for Coastal Andhra and Telangana
According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), heavy rainfall is likely in Polavaram, Kakinada, NTR, Krishna, Bapatla and Palnadu districts.
Moderate rainfall is also expected in Manyam, East Godavari, West Godavari, Konaseema and Eluru districts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Cyclone Murasu is likely to move north-northwestwards and gradually weaken into a deep depression by Tuesday midnight.
The IMD has warned of extremely heavy rainfall in coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam and adjoining Telangana on Tuesday, followed by very heavy rainfall in coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam on Wednesday. Residents have been advised to remain alert and follow official weather bulletins and safety instructions.
Rainfall Deficit Drops From 53% to 28.9%
The rainfall brought by cyclones Arnab and Murasu has significantly improved the state’s rainfall situation. According to officials, the average rainfall deficit in Andhra Pradesh has declined from 53 per cent to 28.9 per cent.
Officials also reported a 0.45-metre rise in groundwater levels within a single day. Groundwater reserves are estimated to receive an additional recharge of 20–30 TMC. Ponds and minor irrigation tanks are estimated to have received up to 10 TMC of water, while reservoirs have received around 7–8 TMC.
Chandrababu Naidu Reviews Cyclone Situation
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed the cyclone situation from the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS) Centre at the Secretariat.
The Chief Minister sought details from officials regarding rainfall recorded across different regions, wind speeds and the overall impact of the cyclone. He said timely public alerts had helped save precious lives.
Naidu also contacted the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to seek cooperation in restoration operations. He instructed officials to analyse real-time data and ensure that all administrative departments function effectively.
Emphasising data-driven decision-making, the Chief Minister directed officials to closely monitor the situation and take prompt action wherever necessary.
With heavy rainfall expected to continue across several districts, authorities remain on alert to manage flooding, restore electricity supply and minimise damage to agriculture and public infrastructure.
