Cyclone Murasu expected to hit Andhra Pradesh coast by November 3
The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for five districts as the storm approaches the southern coast.
Cyclonic Storm Murasu is expected to make landfall along the southern coast of Andhra Pradesh between the night of November 2 and the early hours of November 3, according to the Financial Express. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert on Sunday for Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, Prakasam, and Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore districts, warning of extremely heavy rainfall.
The weather system is projected to strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central Bay of Bengal by the morning of November 2. The IMD expects the storm to cross the coast between Nellore and Narsapur, bringing sustained winds of 100-110 kmph and gusts reaching 120 kmph.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu cancelled a scheduled visit to Delhi on Monday to review emergency response and relief arrangements. In a post on X, Naidu stated the storm could cross the coast near Bapatla on the morning of November 3.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, and Telangana on November 2 and 3. Coastal areas may also experience gusty winds of 80-90 kmph during this period.
In neighbouring Odisha, the Special Relief Commissioner has issued emergency directives and a preparedness action plan to manage the potential impact of the storm. The measures aim to ensure the state administration is ready for heavy rain and strong winds.