ANDHRA PRADESH: Coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh are bracing for impact as Severe Cyclone Mocha intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, prompting authorities to implement emergency measures including widespread flight cancellations and deployment of disaster response teams.
Travel Disruption Widespread
Both Visakhapatnam (Vizag) and Vijayawada airports have cancelled all flight operations as a precautionary measure. Airlines have been instructed to divert or reschedule flights until the cyclone threat subsides, causing significant travel disruption across the state.
Emergency Preparedness in Full Swing
The Andhra Pradesh government has activated its disaster management machinery with:
- NDRF and SDRF teams positioned in vulnerable coastal districts
- Evacuation operations underway in low-lying areas
- Emergency shelters readied with essential supplies
- Fishing activities completely suspended along the coast
Projected Path and Intensity
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Mocha is expected to make landfall between Visakhapatnam and Kakinada with wind speeds potentially reaching 100-110 kmph, gusting to 120 kmph. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecasted for north coastal Andhra districts over the next 48 hours.
Public Safety Advisories Issued
State authorities have issued the following safety guidelines for residents:
- Avoid venturing near coastal areas and sea fronts
- Stay indoors during the peak cyclone period
- Keep emergency kits ready with essentials
- Follow official updates from IMD and state disaster management authorities
The state government has set up 24/7 control rooms to monitor the situation and coordinate relief efforts as Andhra Pradesh prepares to face nature's fury.
