Andhra Pradesh is bracing for torrential rain as Cyclone Murasu intensifies in the Bay of Bengal and heads towards the southern coastline. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red, orange and yellow alerts for several districts forecasting extremely heavy rains, lightning activity and disruption to normal life.

According to the forecast, Cyclone Murasu will hit the coast of south Andhra Pradesh between Nellore and Narsapur near Ongole during the night on November 2 and early hours of November 3. Wind speeds could reach 100-110 kmph with gusts of up to 120kmph.

Cyclone Murasu Intensifies

The weather system began as a depression in the Bay of Bengal and intensified into a deep depression then cyclonic storm.

The IMD confirmed that it intensified into a severe cyclonic storm on November 2. The storm is heading in a north-west direction and approaching the Andhra Pradesh coastline which has raised concerns about torrential rains and strong winds hitting coastal regions and parts of Rayalaseema.

Several districts are likely to be impacted by the cyclone causing disruption to roads, power supplies, farming and normal life.

IMD Issues Red Alert For 5 Andhra Pradesh Districts

• On November 2 the IMD issued a red alert for 5 districts forecasting extremely heavy rainfall with isolated heavy falls.
• Distrcits including Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, Prakasam and Nellore have received the red alert.
• East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, NTR, Palnadu, Tirupati and Chittoor districts have been issued an orange alert with heavy to very heavy rains expected.
• Alluri Sitharama Raju, Kakinada, Konaseema, Nandyal, Kadapa and Annamayya districts have received a yellow alert.
• The weather department has urged people in these vulnerable areas to stay alert and follow local authority guidelines.

More Heavy Rains In Multiple Districts On November 3

The cyclone is expected to have an impact on November 3 with multiple coastal and interior districts experiencing heavy rain.

Alluri Sitharama Raju and Eluru districts have received a red alert from the IMD. Chittoor, Annamayya, Tirupati, Nellore, Prakasam, Palnadu, NTR and Vizianagaram districts have received orange alerts.

Parts of Srikakulam, Parvathipuram Manyam, Anakapalli, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, Kadapa, Nandyal, Kurnool, Anantapur and Sri Sathya Sai districts are likely to experience heavy rain.

There could be thunderstorms in some areas along with strong surface winds and flooding.

Strong Winds Up To 120Kmph

• One of the main concerns with Cyclone Murasu is the chance of strong winds striking land.
• The IMD has forecast wind speeds could reach up to 100-110 kmph with gusts of 120 kmph.
• This could cause damage to power poles, trees, temporary buildings and crops. People living in coastal areas, fishing areas and low lying areas have been urged to take precautions.
• Fishing areas have been urged to strictly follow official warnings.

Impact On Transport And Farming

• The heavy rain could cause issues with transport and farming.
• Low lying areas could cause flooding. Overflowing streams and canals could cause issues when travelling between villages and towns.
• Farmers have been urged to protect their harvested crops.
• Authorities are monitoring vulnerable areas and emergency measures have been put in place.

Government Monitoring Cyclone Situation

The Government of Andhra Pradesh are monitoring the cyclone situation and are reviewing precautionary measures in affected areas.

Officials are ensuring emergency measures are in place. Evacuation plans are being put in place for vulnerable areas. Essential services will be restored. Ensuring people are safe.

Residents are urged to follow official warnings from district administrations and the State Disaster Management Authority.

Stay Safe In Andhra Pradesh

Those in coastal and low lying areas should be cautious.

Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain. Stay away from damaged power cables and do not stand under trees or weak buildings during heavy winds.

Ensure you have enough drinking water, essential medication, emergency lights and important documents. Those in fishing areas must follow IMD warnings and do not go out to sea until it is safe.