A new cyclone has formed over the Bay of Bengal, bringing fresh weather concerns for India’s eastern and southern regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has named the system Cyclone Murasu and warned that it could strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm before making landfall along the Andhra Pradesh coast early Tuesday, November 3.
The developing storm is expected to bring powerful winds, widespread rainfall and potentially dangerous weather conditions to coastal districts. The warning comes just days after Cyclone Arnab struck the Andhra Pradesh coast near Narsapur on October 28.
Cyclone Murasu Moves Closer to India’s Eastern Coast
According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, a deep depression over the southwest and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal intensified into Cyclone Murasu on Sunday morning.
The system was moving west-northwestwards at approximately 23 kmph during the six hours ending at 11:30 am on November 1.
At the time of the latest observation, the cyclone was located around 560 km east-southeast of Chennai, 630 km east-southeast of Nellore and 680 km east-southeast of Ongole.
The weather system is expected to continue moving towards the northwest and gain further strength over the west-central Bay of Bengal.
Severe Cyclonic Storm Expected by Monday
The IMD has forecast that Cyclone Murasu could intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by Monday morning, November 2.
After strengthening, the system is likely to move towards the south Andhra Pradesh coastline. Its landfall is expected between Nellore and Narsapur, possibly during midnight or the early hours of Tuesday.
At the time of crossing the coast, wind speeds could reach 100–110 kmph, with gusts of up to 120 kmph.
Coastal communities are advised to remain alert as the storm approaches. The exact intensity and movement will be monitored through subsequent weather bulletins.
Andhra Pradesh Faces Another Cyclone Threat After Arnab
The arrival of Cyclone Murasu is raising concerns in Andhra Pradesh, particularly because several coastal areas are still dealing with the impact of Cyclone Arnab.
The previous storm made landfall near Narsapur on October 28, affecting parts of Andhra Pradesh and leaving behind challenging weather conditions.
Murasu could bring another round of strong winds and heavy rainfall to the region. Its projected path also puts parts of the south Andhra Pradesh coastline under close observation.
Why Is Cyclone Murasu Strengthening?
Weather forecasting models indicate that Cyclone Murasu could intensify relatively quickly as it moves across the Bay of Bengal.
Warm sea-surface temperatures of around 29–30°C are providing the system with the heat and moisture needed for further development.
Relatively favourable wind conditions and efficient upper-level air circulation could also support the cyclone’s strengthening.
While some forecasting models indicate rapid intensification within six to 12 hours, others suggest a more gradual increase in strength. The IMD will continue assessing the system as fresh observations become available.
Heavy to Extremely Heavy Rainfall Forecast
Apart from strong winds, Cyclone Murasu is expected to bring significant rainfall across several parts of southern and eastern India.
The IMD has identified coastal Andhra Pradesh as one of the areas facing the highest rainfall risk. Other regions, including Rayalaseema, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and southern Odisha, may also receive substantial precipitation.
The regional rainfall outlook includes:
- Coastal Andhra Pradesh: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected at a few places on Monday, with extremely heavy rainfall possible at isolated locations. Rainfall activity may continue through Wednesday.
- Rayalaseema: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places on Monday and Tuesday.
- Tamil Nadu: Heavy rainfall is forecast at isolated locations on Monday and Tuesday.
- Telangana: Several areas may receive rainfall, with heavy showers possible at isolated places on Monday and Tuesday.
- South Odisha: Heavy rainfall is likely on Monday, with heavy to very heavy showers possible at isolated locations on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Residents Advised to Follow Weather Updates
With Cyclone Murasu expected to approach the Indian coastline, residents in potentially affected areas should closely follow official weather warnings and instructions from local authorities.
People living in coastal and low-lying areas should remain cautious about strong winds, heavy rainfall and possible local flooding.
The IMD is monitoring the cyclone’s movement and intensity. Further updates will provide a clearer picture of its expected landfall location and the areas likely to experience the strongest impact.
Note: The cyclone’s projected path, intensity and rainfall forecast may change. Follow the latest official IMD advisories for updated information.
