Odisha braces for heavy rain as Cyclone Murasu intensifies
An orange warning has been issued for five southern districts as the severe cyclonic storm approaches the Andhra Pradesh coast.
Cyclone Murasu has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal, bringing the possibility of heavy rainfall to parts of Odisha, according to Odisha Bytes. While the cyclone is not expected to make a direct impact on the state, its effects may be felt in southern regions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that the storm is moving west-northwestwards towards the Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu coasts. Landfall is expected between Nellore and Narsapur, near Ongole, during the midnight of November 2 or the early hours of Tuesday.
An orange warning has been issued for Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri districts for Tuesday. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places in Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri on November 3 and 4.
Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds are likely across several districts. OTV reported that a yellow warning for thunderstorms and rain was issued for 16 districts on Sunday, with gusty winds of 30-40 kmph expected in coastal areas and parts of Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri.
The IMD advised people to monitor weather forecasts, seek shelter during thunderstorms to avoid lightning, and follow urban traffic advisories. Rainfall activity is expected to decrease by November 5, with intensity reducing significantly on November 6 and 7.