Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu on alert as Cyclone Murasu approaches
Authorities in three states prepare for landfall as the severe cyclonic storm threatens to bring heavy rain and high winds.
Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha have initiated emergency preparedness as severe cyclonic storm Murasu approaches the coast, according to reports from Hindustan Times, The News Mill, and Urban Acres. The storm is projected to make landfall between Nellore and Narsapuram between late Sunday night and early Tuesday morning.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has ordered officials to prepare for rescue and relief operations. He noted that the system is expected to cross the coast near Bapatla on the morning of November 3. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has also directed authorities in Nellore, Prakasam, Markapuram, Bapatla, and Krishna districts to evacuate residents from low-lying areas.
In Tamil Nadu, the revenue administration has instructed district collectors to mobilise machinery and maintain vigilance. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast for parts of Chennai, Tiruvallur, and the Nilgiris over the coming days. Meanwhile, Odisha Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated the state is ready to manage the storm and has ordered evacuations in hilly and low-lying areas.
The cyclone has already impacted travel, with 11 flights between Chennai and Andhra Pradesh cancelled. IndiGo reported cancelling ten flights from Gannavaram Airport in Vijayawada on Monday. Additionally, six National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and seven State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are on standby to assist with emergency operations.