Cyclone Murasu threatens Odisha and Andhra Pradesh coast
The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for heavy rainfall in southern Odisha and Andhra Pradesh as a depression intensifies.
A depression in the Bay of Bengal is forecast to develop into a cyclonic storm named Murasu, which is expected to hit the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapur by the morning of November 3, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The IMD has issued an orange warning for five southern Odisha districts, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri, for heavy to very heavy rainfall on November 3 and 4, Deccan Chronicle reported.
While Murasu is not expected to make direct landfall in Odisha, its movement towards Andhra Pradesh is likely to cause widespread thunderstorms and rainfall in the state. IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that wind speeds during landfall could reach 80 to 90 kmph, with gusts up to 100 kmph.
On Monday, Ganjam and Gajapati districts may see rainfall between 7 cm and 12 cm at certain locations. The IMD has also issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms and rain across 16 other districts.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea until at least Wednesday afternoon. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra warned that the west-central, southeast, and parts of the central Bay of Bengal would be dangerous for boats and small ships starting Sunday.
Rainfall activity in Odisha is expected to decrease from November 5, with intensity reducing further on November 6 and 7.