Chennai, November 2 (TNA) The effects of Cyclone Murasu have begun to be felt across Chennai and surrounding districts, with heavy rain expected as the storm moves towards the south Andhra Pradesh coast.
The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for Chennai and Tiruvallur, warning of very heavy rainfall at isolated places. Rainfall of 12–20 cm in 24 hours is possible in the two districts on Monday.
According to the IMD, Cyclone Murasu was located over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal on November 1, around 560 km east-southeast of Chennai. The system was forecast to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm before moving northwestwards towards the Andhra Pradesh coast.
The cyclone is expected to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur during the late hours of November 2 or the early hours of November 3. Wind speeds of 100–110 kmph, with gusts up to 120 kmph, have been forecast near the landfall area.
The IMD has forecast light to moderate rain at many places in northern coastal Tamil Nadu, with isolated heavy to very heavy showers. Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore and the Nilgiris are among the districts under weather alerts.
Coastal Andhra Pradesh is likely to receive extremely heavy rainfall in isolated areas, while parts of Odisha may also experience heavy rain as the system advances inland.
Schools Closed
The Chennai and Tiruvallur district administrations have declared a holiday for all schools and colleges on November 2 as a precautionary measure. Authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain indoors during heavy rain and thunderstorms.
Civic agencies have been placed on alert to manage waterlogging, fallen trees, traffic disruption and possible flooding in low-lying areas. Residents have also been urged to stay away from flooded roads and coastal stretches.
Fishermen Advised to Stay Away
The IMD has warned fishermen and coastal communities to remain cautious as sea conditions are expected to become rough to very rough. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the affected parts of the Bay of Bengal until conditions improve.
Authorities are monitoring the cyclone’s movement and are expected to issue further alerts on rainfall, wind speed and possible impacts as Murasu approaches the coast.