Severe cyclonic storm Murasu nears Andhra coast for Tuesday landfall
The storm is expected to cross the coast near Ongole with wind speeds reaching 120 kmph.
Severe cyclonic storm Murasu is approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast and is expected to make landfall near Ongole between Nellore and Narsapuram on 3 November, according to reports from South First and The Hindu.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated the storm may intensify further before reaching the coast. At 10:00 AM on 2 November, the system was centred 160 km from Nellore and 180 km from Chennai, moving at 22 kmph.
Wind speeds during landfall are forecast to be between 100 and 110 kmph, with gusts reaching 120 kmph. Heavy to very heavy rains are expected in Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, Prakasam, Markapuram, and Nellore districts, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall possible.
In response, the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has placed six NDRF and seven SDRF teams on standby. Two teams each have been stationed in Krishna, Bapatla, Guntur, Nellore, and Prakasam, while one team each is in Markapuram, Palnadu, and Tirupati.
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu held a review meeting with officials to discuss preparedness. He directed district administrations to remain on high alert and instructed the evacuation of people from low-lying areas to safer locations.
NTR and Guntur districts have declared holidays for all schools, junior colleges, and degree colleges on Monday. Citizens can report cyclone-related issues via the 'Mana Mitra' WhatsApp service at 9552300009.