Coastal Andhra Pradesh faced nature's fury on Tuesday as severe cyclonic storm Mocha made landfall, unleashing torrential rains and fierce winds that left one person dead and triggered massive evacuation operations across vulnerable regions.
Human Toll and Rescue Operations
Tragedy struck in Srikakulam district where a 55-year-old woman lost her life when a wall collapsed amid the storm's onslaught. Meanwhile, disaster response teams executed one of the largest evacuation missions in recent memory, successfully relocating approximately 21,500 residents from low-lying and coastal areas to safer ground.
Widespread Destruction Across Districts
The cyclone's impact spread across multiple coastal districts with Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and Visakhapatnam bearing the brunt of nature's assault. Preliminary assessments reveal:
- Extensive damage to agricultural lands and standing crops
- Multiple uprooted trees blocking crucial roadways
- Power outages affecting numerous villages
- Damage to thatched houses and temporary structures
Government Response and Relief Measures
State authorities have mounted comprehensive relief operations with Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy closely monitoring the situation. The government has established:
- Round-the-clock emergency operation centers
- Special relief camps with essential supplies
- Rapid assessment teams to survey damage
- Coordination with National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
Weather Outlook and Precautions
While Cyclone Mocha has begun weakening after landfall, the India Meteorological Department continues to issue heavy rainfall alerts for the region. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into sea conditions that remain turbulent, and residents in affected areas are urged to exercise caution while authorities work to restore normalcy.
The state government has assured citizens that relief and rehabilitation efforts will continue until all affected communities receive necessary assistance and infrastructure is fully restored.
