Cyclone Murasu IMD Warns Andhra Pradesh of 120 kmph Winds

Cyclone Murasu approaches Andhra Pradesh with 120 kmph wind gusts and heavy rain warnings. IMD issues coastal weather alerts.

By News National Editorial Team

A severe cyclonic storm named Murasu is moving towards the Andhra Pradesh coast over the Bay of Bengal, prompting heightened weather alerts and emergency preparedness across coastal districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of strong winds, heavy rainfall and possible coastal inundation as the system approaches land.

According to the IMD's cyclone warning bulletin issued on November 2, Murasu was positioned over the west-central and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal. The storm was moving west-northwestwards and was forecast to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur, near Ongole, during the night of November 2 and early hours of November 3.

Winds of up to 120 kmph expected

The IMD has forecast sustained wind speeds of approximately 100–110 kmph during landfall, with gusts potentially reaching 120 kmph. Such conditions could damage electricity infrastructure, disrupt transport services and affect communication networks.

Coastal communities, fishermen and residents in vulnerable locations have been advised to follow official weather and disaster-management instructions. People should avoid entering the sea and should not approach flooded roads, drainage channels or damaged electrical installations.

Heavy rainfall warning across coastal districts

The approaching storm is expected to bring widespread rainfall across several parts of Andhra Pradesh.

The IMD's November 2 subdivision-wise warning identifies extremely heavy rainfall risks in Coastal Andhra Pradesh on November 2 and 3, followed by heavy rainfall on November 4. Rayalaseema is also under a very heavy rainfall warning for November 2 and 3.

Heavy rainfall may lead to waterlogging, localised flooding, disruption of road connectivity and difficulties in low-lying areas. Authorities are expected to monitor vulnerable locations and coordinate emergency response arrangements.

Government steps up emergency preparations

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has reviewed cyclone preparedness and directed officials to remain alert for rescue, relief and restoration operations.

According to reports published on November 2, the Chief Minister postponed his scheduled Delhi visit to focus on the developing weather situation. Officials were also instructed to prepare electricity restoration teams and maintain coordination with neighbouring states.

The state government is particularly concerned about possible damage to electricity poles and power distribution infrastructure. Preparations include arranging additional personnel, machinery and equipment so that essential services can be restored quickly if disruptions occur.

Neighbouring states also monitoring the situation

The weather system is also affecting preparedness in neighbouring regions. Tamil Nadu authorities have been asked to maintain vigilance in districts facing heavy rainfall forecasts. Telangana is also preparing to assist with emergency electricity restoration requirements in Andhra Pradesh.

Odisha, which recently experienced the impact of Cyclone Arnab, has strengthened preparedness in vulnerable southern districts.

Residents advised to remain cautious

Residents in coastal and low-lying areas should monitor official IMD bulletins and instructions from district administrations. Fishermen should follow restrictions on sea activities, while people living in vulnerable locations should cooperate with evacuation instructions where issued.

The intensity, rainfall distribution and precise local impacts may change as the cyclone moves closer to land. Residents should rely on updated official advisories rather than unverified social media messages.

News National will continue monitoring official weather bulletins and government announcements for further updates.

Sources: India Meteorological Department (IMD), Andhra Pradesh government preparedness briefing, The New Indian Express, November 2, 2026.