Cyclone Murasu expected to hit Andhra Pradesh coast on November 3
A depression in the Bay of Bengal may intensify into Cyclone Murasu, bringing heavy rainfall to Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.
A depression over the Bay of Bengal is forecast to intensify into Cyclone Murasu and make landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast on the morning of Tuesday, November 3, according to reports by India Today, The Indian Express and Business Standard.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that the system could reach the coast between Nellore and Narsapur. If it develops into a cyclonic storm, it will be named Murasu, which is a name provided by India.
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the storm could produce sustained winds of 80 to 90 kmph, with gusts hitting 100 kmph. The Indian Express reported the system may cross the coast as a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds of 100 to 110 kmph and gusts of 120 kmph.
The weather agency has predicted very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall for Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema on November 2 and 3. Southern Odisha is also expected to see heavy rain on November 3 and 4.
Fishermen have been advised to stay away from the sea until at least Wednesday afternoon. Mr. Mohapatra warned that sea conditions in the west-central, south-east and central Bay of Bengal could be dangerous for small vessels.
In Odisha, State Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari said the government has prepared to evacuate residents from areas at risk of landslides. Discussions were held with officials in districts including Ganjam, Gajapati, Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Nabarangpur and Kandhamal.