BAY OF BENGAL: Cyclone Mocha intensified into a severe cyclonic storm early Tuesday morning, making a dramatic landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast between Nizampatnam and Machilipatnam. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several coastal districts as the storm unleashes its fury.
Storm Intensity and Path
The cyclonic system has been brewing over the west-central Bay of Bengal, rapidly gaining strength over the past 24 hours. According to IMD officials, the storm packed wind speeds reaching 90-100 kmph, gusting up to 110 kmph during landfall. The system is expected to move northwestward, gradually weakening as it progresses inland.
IMD's Severe Weather Warning
The weather agency has predicted extremely heavy rainfall in several districts of Andhra Pradesh, with North Coastal Andhra and adjoining areas of South Coastal Andhra expected to receive the brunt of the precipitation. Fishermen have been strictly advised against venturing into the sea until the storm completely passes.
Affected Regions and Safety Measures
Coastal districts on high alert include:
- Krishna
- Guntur
- Bapatla
- Nellore
- Prakasam
Local authorities have been put on high alert, with disaster response teams positioned in vulnerable areas. Emergency services including NDRF teams have been deployed for rapid response operations.
Precautionary Advisories
Residents in affected areas have been advised to:
- Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel
- Secure loose objects around homes
- Keep emergency kits ready
- Follow official updates from IMD and local authorities
- Avoid coastal areas and river banks
The IMD continues to monitor the situation closely, with hourly updates being issued to keep the public informed about the cyclone's movement and intensity.
