Cyclone Fury: Murasu strikes Andhra Pradesh coast with powerful winds and heavy rain

Cyclone Murasu has made landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast, bringing powerful winds, heavy rainfall and widespread damage. The storm reportedly struck the coast at around 2:30 AM, moving towards the coastal belt near Ongole, between Nellore and Narsapur. The India Meteorological Department had forecast winds of 100–110 kmph during landfall, with gusts potentially reaching 120 kmph. However, the ABP News ground report from Kothapatnam, near Ongole, recorded conditions described as reaching around 130 kmph. Ongole has witnessed particularly severe conditions, with continuous rainfall, uprooted trees, damaged electricity poles and shattered glass panels at properties. In Bapatla, several trees were also reportedly uprooted by the strong winds. The cyclone's impact has extended to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, while Chennai has witnessed high waves along its coastline. A red alert has been issued for Andhra Pradesh, and NDRF teams are on standby to assist with emergency operations. According to the ground report, the landfall process was continuing and the following two to three hours were considered crucial. The storm has added to Andhra Pradesh's difficulties following another cyclone, Arnab, within a short period.