Cyclone Murasu Turns Severe; Andhra Pradesh Landfall Likely Tonight

Cyclone Murasu has strengthened into a severe cyclonic storm over the Bay of Bengal and is expected to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast near Ongole overnight, the India Meteorological Department said.

The storm is likely to make landfall between Nellore and Narsapur from 11.30 pm on November 2 to 4 am on November 3. IMD forecast sustained wind speeds of 100–110 kmph, with gusts reaching 120 kmph, as it crosses the coast.

Murasu moves northwest towards Andhra coast

At 2.30 am on November 2, Murasu was centred over the west-central and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal, about 290 km east-southeast of Nellore and 330 km southeast of Ongole.

The system had moved nearly northwestwards at 20 kmph over the preceding six hours. IMD said it was very likely to continue in that direction and reach the coast as a severe cyclonic storm.

The forecast places the stretch around Ongole in the storm’s projected landfall zone.

Rayagada deploys emergency teams

In neighbouring Odisha, Rayagada’s district administration has mobilised all 11 fire station teams and positioned heavy machinery to respond to possible disruption.

Additional District Magistrate (General) Ravindranath Kahanra said a virtual emergency meeting chaired by the district collector reviewed warning systems, rescue and relief arrangements, shelters and essential equipment.

Based on forecasts from IMD and Odisha’s Special Relief Commissioner, Rayagada was under a yellow warning through November 2, followed by an orange warning for November 3 and 4, he said.

Machinery positioned to clear highway

JCBs, excavators and Hydra cranes have been stationed at Gumma Ghati and Mukundpur Ghati to clear National Highway 326 if roads become blocked.

Block development officers, tahsildars and other officials have been instructed to remain at their posts with the equipment needed for an emergency response.

“The administration has deployed fire station teams and machinery for road clearance,” Kahanra said, adding that officials had been directed to prepare for any eventuality.

With inputs from ANI