Cyclonic storm Murasu likely to hit Andhra Pradesh coast on November 3
The IMD has issued a red alert for five districts as the system is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm.
A depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm and hit the Andhra Pradesh coast on the morning of November 3, according to reports from Business Standard, Financial Express and Outlook.
The system, which will be named Murasu if it intensifies into a cyclone, is moving west-northwestwards. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the system concentrated into a depression at 11.30 am on October 31.
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that wind speeds are likely to be between 80 kmph and 90 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 100 kmph. Financial Express reported the system may reach wind speeds of up to 120 kmph.
The IMD has issued a red alert for Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, Prakasam and Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore districts for November 2, warning of extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places. Heavy to very heavy rain is also forecast for Rayalaseema and Telangana.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu cancelled a scheduled visit to Delhi on Monday to review relief and emergency response arrangements. He noted the system could cross the coast near Bapatla on the morning of November 3.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until at least Wednesday afternoon. The IMD warned that parts of the Bay of Bengal will be devastating for boats and small ships.