Cyclone Murasu Approaches Andhra Coast; IMD Warns of 120 kmph Gusts

Cyclone Murasu is forecast to cross Andhra Pradesh near Ongole with winds up to 120 kmph. Authorities prepare for heavy rain and landfall.

Amaravati, November 2, 2026: Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have intensified preparations as Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu moves towards the state's southern coastline, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting potentially damaging winds, heavy rainfall and dangerous sea conditions.

According to the IMD's cyclone bulletin, the storm is expected to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur, close to Ongole, around midnight on November 2 or during the early hours of November 3. Wind speeds during landfall are forecast at 100–110 kmph, with gusts reaching 120 kmph.

Severe storm over the Bay of Bengal

Murasu developed over the west-central and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal before intensifying into a severe cyclonic storm.

The weather system has been moving northwestwards towards the Andhra Pradesh coast. The IMD has warned of very rough to phenomenal sea conditions and advised fishermen to avoid entering the affected waters.

The exact point and timing of landfall can change as the system moves. Residents should therefore follow the latest official weather bulletins rather than relying on older forecast maps or social media posts.

Coastal districts prepare for impact

The Andhra Pradesh government has directed officials to remain prepared for emergency response, evacuation and relief operations.

Reports indicate that districts across the coastal region have been preparing shelters, emergency equipment and personnel. Preliminary assessments cited by the state government indicate that strong winds could damage thousands of electricity poles across affected districts.

Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is forecast in parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh. Rainfall may also affect neighbouring Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Odisha, depending on the storm's movement.

Tamil Nadu also faces heavy rainfall

The cyclone's influence is already being felt in Tamil Nadu. Heavy rain caused waterlogging in parts of Chennai on Monday.

The IMD issued an orange alert for Chennai, and schools were closed for the day. Some flights were also cancelled because of adverse weather conditions. Rainfall observations reported by the Indian Express included 11 cm at Madhavaram and 10 cm each at Ennore Port and Nungambakkam during the preceding 24 hours.

Safety instructions for residents

People living in coastal and low-lying areas should follow instructions issued by district administrations and disaster-management authorities.

Residents should:

• Avoid beaches, sea-facing roads and flooded areas.

• Stay away from damaged electrical wires and fallen trees.

• Keep essential medicines, drinking water, identification documents and emergency supplies ready.

• Avoid travelling during periods of severe weather unless necessary.

• Follow official evacuation instructions immediately.

• Fishermen should remain ashore until authorities withdraw the warning.

What happens after landfall?

The storm is expected to weaken after crossing the coast, but rainfall and strong winds may continue as it moves inland. Even after wind speeds reduce, flooding, fallen trees, electricity interruptions and damage to infrastructure may create difficulties.

District administrations and emergency-response teams will need to monitor the situation closely during and after landfall.

Cyclone forecasts are updated as new observations become available. News National will update this report when the IMD and Andhra Pradesh disaster-management authorities release confirmed information about landfall, damage and relief operations.

By News National Editorial Team

Sources: India Meteorological Department – Cyclone Bulletins · Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority · Indian Express – Live Weather Updates