Cyclone Murasu: Severe Storm Set to Hit South Andhra Coast Tonight
Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu is expected to make landfall near Ongole with winds up to 120 kmph. NDRF teams deployed for rescue operations.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a critical alert as Cyclone Murasu landfall is expected to occur along the south Andhra Pradesh coast late Monday night or in the early hours of Tuesday. The Severe Cyclonic Storm, currently churning over the west-central and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal, is moving with significant intensity toward the mainland.
Current Position and Movement
According to the latest IMD bulletin, the cyclone has been moving in a west-northwest direction at a speed of 25 kmph. As of 5:30 am IST on Monday, the system was centered near Latitude 13.9°N and Longitude 81.8°E.
The storm's proximity to major coastal hubs is a cause for concern. It was positioned approximately:
- 200 km east-northeast of Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- 210 km east-southeast of Nellore, Andhra Pradesh
- 220 km east-southeast of Kavali, Andhra Pradesh
- 260 km southeast of Ongole, Andhra Pradesh
- 270 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Expected Landfall and Wind Intensity
The IMD predicts that the storm will continue its northwestward trajectory, crossing the coast between Nellore and Narsapur, specifically close to Ongole. The window for landfall is estimated to be between 23:30 hrs IST on Monday and 04:00 hrs IST on November 3.
Upon making landfall, Cyclone Murasu is expected to maintain its status as a Severe Cyclonic Storm. The IMD warns of destructive wind speeds ranging from 100 to 110 kmph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 120 kmph.
Emergency Deployments and Disaster Readiness
In response to the looming threat, the government has mobilized rescue forces to minimize loss of life and property. Three teams from the 4th battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been dispatched from Tamil Nadu to Andhra Pradesh. These teams, which were stationed at Nagarikuppam near Arakkonam in the Ranipet district, are now on the ground to spearhead relief and rescue operations.
Rayagada District on High Alert
While the storm is targeting the coast, inland districts are also preparing for the ripple effects. In the Rayagada district, the administration has ramped up its preparedness for potential heavy rainfall and cyclone-related impacts.
Additional District Magistrate (General) Ravindranath Kahanra confirmed that all 11 fire station teams have been deployed, along with heavy machinery, at strategic locations for immediate emergency response.
To ensure a coordinated effort, the District Collector chaired a virtual emergency review meeting on Sunday. The key focus areas of this meeting included:
- Verification of early warning systems.
- Readiness of emergency services and rescue operations.
- Arrangements for emergency shelters.
- Ensuring the availability of all essential equipment.
"In preparation for Cyclone Murasu, the Rayagada District Collector held a virtual emergency meeting to discuss safety measures and readiness. Key topics included the district's preparedness, early warning systems, emergency services, and shelter preparations," stated Ravindranath Kahanra.