Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu Approaches Andhra Pradesh Coast for Landfall

Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu is forecast to make landfall on the south Andhra Pradesh coast between 2330 IST on 2 November and 0400 IST on 3 November, according to the India Meteorological Department. The system was centred near 14.2°N 81.1°E at midday on 2 November, about 120 km east-southeast of Nellore.

Winds near the centre were estimated at 100-110 kmph, gusting to 120 kmph. The storm has been moving west-northwest at around 14-22 kmph. After landfall it is expected to weaken and turn north then north-northeast.

A storm surge of 1.5-2.0 m above astronomical tide is likely to inundate low-lying areas of south coastal Andhra Pradesh, with the highest surge expected over Bapatla, Krishna and Prakasam districts. Extremely heavy rainfall is forecast at isolated places over coastal Andhra Pradesh on 2-3 November, with heavy to very heavy falls also possible over northern Tamil Nadu, Telangana and parts of Odisha.

Schools and colleges have been closed in several districts of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. At least 19 domestic flights were cancelled at Vijayawada, Tirupati and Visakhapatnam airports. District collectors have been placed on high alert for rescue and relief operations.

The name Murasu, meaning war drum, was contributed by India under the regional cyclone naming system. The system intensified from a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal into a cyclonic storm and then a severe cyclonic storm within 24 hours.

Authorities have warned of potential flooding in low-lying coastal areas and advised residents to move to safer locations where required. Fishing operations have been suspended along the affected coasts. Power and communication disruptions are possible in the path of the storm.

IMD rates confidence in the current position, track and intensity forecast as high. The system is expected to weaken into a cyclonic storm after landfall as it moves inland.

Coastal Andhra Pradesh has a history of cyclone impacts, and local administrations have activated standard operating procedures for evacuation of vulnerable populations in surge-prone zones. Relief camps are being prepared in several mandals.

Satellite imagery shows a well-organised system with deep convection around the centre. The storm is the latest in the 2026 North Indian Ocean cyclone season.

Residents in Nellore, Prakasam and surrounding districts have been advised to avoid travel, secure loose objects and monitor official bulletins. The state government has directed officials to remain fully prepared for relief and rescue.