Cyclone Murasu has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and is moving towards the Andhra Pradesh coast, raising concerns for fishermen and aquaculture farmers across coastal districts.
According to the weather information in the report, the system was moving at approximately 14 kmph, with the possibility of crossing the coast between Nellore and Narasapuram, near Ongole. Wind speeds were forecast to reach 100–110 kmph, with gusts up to 120 kmph.
With heavy rainfall, strong winds and rough sea conditions expected, preparedness is essential for both marine fishing communities and shrimp farming operations.
Fishermen: Avoid Venturing Into the Sea
Fishermen along the Andhra Pradesh coast should strictly follow official weather warnings and avoid going to sea until authorities declare conditions safe.
Strong winds, high waves and sudden changes in sea conditions can make fishing extremely dangerous, particularly for small and mechanised fishing boats. Boats already at sea should follow instructions from marine police, harbour authorities and other emergency services.
Fishing communities should also secure boats, nets, engines and other equipment at safe locations. Fishermen should not take risks based on temporary improvements in weather conditions.
Staying ashore during cyclone warnings is essential to protecting lives.
Shrimp Farmers: Strengthen Pond Bunds Before Heavy Rain
For shrimp farmers, preparation should begin before rainfall reaches the farm.
One of the major risks during cyclones is damage to pond embankments due to continuous rainfall, rising water levels and strong winds. Farmers should inspect all pond bunds and strengthen weak or damaged sections.
Particular attention should be given to:
- Low-lying and weak sections of pond embankments.
- Water inlets, outlets and drainage channels.
- Emergency overflow arrangements.
- Electrical connections, aerators and generator installations.
- Feed storage areas and other farm equipment.
Farmers should ensure that drainage channels are clear and functional so that excess rainwater can be safely released without damaging pond structures.
Rainwater Can Change Pond pH
Heavy rainfall can also affect shrimp pond water quality. Rainwater entering directly into ponds can dilute pond water and alter important water parameters, including pH and alkalinity.
Sudden changes in pH can create additional stress for shrimp, particularly when combined with fluctuations in temperature, salinity and dissolved oxygen.
Farmers should monitor pond pH before and after rainfall, preferably during morning and afternoon hours. They should also check salinity, alkalinity and dissolved oxygen to understand how the pond environment is changing.
Avoid making sudden water-treatment or chemical corrections without checking the actual water parameters. Maintaining stable pond conditions is more important than reacting blindly to individual readings.
Check All Water Quality Parameters
During cyclone conditions, farmers should not monitor pH alone. They should regularly test all important pond water quality parameters, including:
- Dissolved oxygen (DO)
- pH
- Alkalinity
- Salinity
- Ammonia
- Nitrite
- Water temperature
Heavy rainfall and sudden weather changes can affect multiple parameters simultaneously. Farmers should maintain regular records and compare readings before and after rainfall to identify sudden fluctuations.
Monitoring all these parameters helps farmers understand changes in pond conditions and take appropriate corrective measures before shrimp experience severe stress.
Keep Emergency Oxygen Support Ready
Power interruptions during cyclones can stop aerators from functioning, increasing the risk of dissolved oxygen depletion.
Farmers should keep backup generators, sufficient fuel and aerators ready to maintain oxygen supply during power failures. Emergency oxygen tablets or other suitable oxygen-support products should also be stocked in advance for use when required.
If dissolved oxygen levels drop, farmers should immediately activate available aeration systems and follow the recommended instructions for emergency oxygen support.
Oxygen tablets should be treated as additional emergency support, not as a replacement for functional aerators and backup power.
Secure Farm Infrastructure Before the Storm
Cyclone preparedness is not limited to protecting pond structures. Farmers should secure feed bags in dry storage, protect electrical equipment, arrange backup power and ensure that aerators can operate during power interruptions.
They should also keep essential farm equipment ready, inspect pond outlets and ensure that excess rainwater can be drained safely.
For coastal fishing communities and aquaculture farmers, early preparation can reduce damage and prevent avoidable losses.
