Murusu Cyclone Hits Andhra Pradesh Coast, Winds Reach 120 kmph

Severe cyclonic storm Murusu made landfall on Andhra Pradesh’s coast early Tuesday, bringing winds up to 120 kmph and torrential rain. The system struck near Kothapatnam, close to Ongole in Prakasam district, at around 1 am. India Meteorological Department data show the storm moved north‑northwest at about eight kmph for six hours before crossing the coast between Nellore and Narasapur. Wind speeds measured 100‑110 kmph with gusts hitting 120 kmph. State Disaster Management Authority managing director Prakhar Jain reported that the outer rain bands finished passing the shoreline by 5:30 am. Gale‑force winds uprooted trees around Ongole and knocked out electricity supplies. Heavy rain continued across Prakasam, Bapatla, West Godavari and Konaseema districts. Up to 6 am, Naguluppalapadu recorded 198.01 mm, Kothapatnam 182.25 mm, Bapatla 128.53 mm, Chirala 124.10 mm, Trovagunta 116.93 mm, Ongole Urban 106.97 mm and Chilakapadu 104.50 mm. The IMD forecast that Murusu will weaken to a cyclonic storm by noon, with winds dropping to 80‑90 kmph (gusts 100 kmph), and further to a deep depression by midnight, when speeds should be 55‑65 kmph (gusts 75 kmph). Jain urged residents in vulnerable coastal zones to stay indoors, avoid non‑essential travel and follow official directions. He said the SDMA and the Real‑Time Governance Society are monitoring the situation and coordinating relief.

Context

Coastal Andhra Pradesh frequently faces cyclones during the pre‑monsoon season; weakening of storms after landfall is typical as they lose energy over land, but strong winds and flash flooding can persist for several hours.