Cyclone devastates Andhra Pradesh; death toll rises to seven

Andhra Pradesh has borne the brunt of the cyclonic system, with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu confirming the death toll at seven as preliminary assessments continue. The state's infrastructure has suffered extensive damage, with preliminary loss estimates pegged at ₹4,600 crore, making it one of the most destructive storms to hit the region in recent years.

The Konaseema district has emerged as a particular hotspot of destruction, where approximately 8,000 electric poles were uprooted during the storm's passage. The widespread power infrastructure damage has disrupted electricity supply across affected areas, hampering relief and restoration efforts.

As the cyclone system has progressed, West Bengal has come under its influence, experiencing heavy rainfall that has prompted weather warnings across coastal and interior districts. Authorities in both states have activated disaster management protocols and are coordinating relief operations to assist affected communities.

State government teams continue ground assessments to consolidate damage reports, with the final loss estimates likely to increase as detailed surveys progress. Emergency response teams have been mobilised to clear debris, restore essential services, and provide assistance to displaced residents in the affected regions.