Cyclone Murasu Intensifies in Bay of Bengal, Alerts Issued for Chennai and Surrounding Areas
Cyclone Murasu is expected to hit Andhra Pradeshs coast, bringing heavy rains and strong winds to Chennai and nearby districts.
Chennai, November 2 (Daily Kiran) : Cyclone ‘Murasu’ has rapidly intensified into a severe cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal, with projections indicating it may make landfall along the southern coast of Andhra Pradesh between midnight and 4 AM on Tuesday.
The director of the Chennai Regional Meteorological Centre, Durai, addressed the media, stating that while the storm will primarily impact southern Andhra Pradesh, northern coastal Tamil Nadu will also experience adverse weather conditions. As the cyclone approaches the coastline, heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated in coastal districts, including Chennai and Tiruvallur.
Durai warned that wind speeds near the cyclone’s center could reach between 100 to 120 km/h, with gusts of up to 80 km/h expected in Chennai and Tiruvallur. Rainfall in Chennai is predicted to continue until Tuesday morning, with other districts like Vellore and Nilgiris also bracing for significant precipitation over the next 24 hours.
Despite being classified as ‘severe,’ officials have reassured the public that the potential damage from Cyclone ‘Murasu’ is not expected to be as severe as that caused by Cyclone ‘Arnab’ in the past. Precautionary measures have already been implemented in vulnerable areas.
Fishermen working along northern Tamil Nadu’s coast have been strongly advised against venturing into the sea, as dangerous conditions are forecasted with winds reaching 80 km/h starting Monday evening.
According to the meteorological department, the intensity of rainfall in Tamil Nadu is expected to decrease after November 7, transitioning to moderate rainfall. However, intermittent showers may continue through the second week of November.
Director Durai noted that the ongoing northeast monsoon has brought substantial rainfall to Tamil Nadu, with levels recorded at 18 percent above normal. This increase in water reserves is a positive aspect as the severe cyclone approaches. Local authorities are on high alert to handle any emergencies that may arise.
