Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu Approaches India's Southern Coast

Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu is tracking across the west-central Bay of Bengal and is expected to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapur. The India Meteorological Department forecasts that the storm will bring maximum sustained wind speeds of 100 to 110 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching up to 120 kilometers per hour during landfall. Weather authorities predict the system will make landfall late Monday or early Tuesday.

In response to the incoming storm, authorities in Andhra Pradesh have started evacuating residents from low-lying coastal areas. Prakhar Jain, managing director of the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority, stated that the state planned to evacuate approximately 30,000 people. Officials have deployed six National Disaster Response Force teams and seven State Disaster Response Force teams to prepare for potential emergencies.

Neighboring Odisha is also bracing for heavy rainfall and gusty winds, particularly as several districts continue to recover from the impact of Cyclone Arnab. The India Meteorological Department issued an orange warning for five southern districts—Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput, and Malkangiri—forecasting heavy to very heavy precipitation. Administrations in Ganjam, Koraput, and Gajapati have intensified relief and rescue operations, evacuating over 150,000 people in Ganjam alone.

During a review meeting with district collectors, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu instructed local officials to maintain high alert status. Mr. Naidu noted that while the impact of Cyclone Murasu is expected to be relatively limited compared to Cyclone Arnab, authorities must remain vigilant regarding heavy rains and gales. Officials estimated that up to 8,000 electricity poles could sustain damage, and additional personnel from Chennai have been requested to assist with power restoration.

State infrastructure and agricultural sectors are taking proactive precautions to mitigate damages. Chief Minister Naidu directed officials to ensure efficient water management across south coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema to fill reservoirs and prevent tank breaches. Furthermore, local administrations have arranged shelter facilities equipped with medical supplies, safe drinking water, and food provisions for displaced populations.

Beyond India's immediate coastal zones, regional weather services have issued maritime warnings. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department advised maritime ports in Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Mongla, and Payra to hoist distant warning signal number two, cautioning all fishing boats and trawlers in the North Bay to stay close to the coast. Schools have also been ordered to close across parts of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha as heavy showers and thunderstorms continue to affect the region.