Cyclone Murasu nears Andhra with 120 kmph gusts; 20+ flights cancelled, Odisha on high alert

Cyclone Murasu is approaching the Andhra Pradesh coast, with the India Meteorological Department forecasting landfall near Ongole between late Monday night and early Tuesday morning. Winds are expected to be in the 100–110 kmph range, gusting up to 120 kmph.

The storm intensified over the west-central and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal and has prompted widespread weather alerts across eastern and southern states. Authorities are warning of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas that could damage structures, disrupt electricity supplies, and affect transport.

Air travel has been affected, with flights cancelled at Chennai and Vijayawada as weather conditions deteriorated. The IMD indicated the cyclone would cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur, near Ongole, with potential impacts on coastal communities.

Odisha has also escalated preparations, with high alert issued for several southern districts and more than 300 emergency teams pre-positioned. Officials are prioritizing evacuation and relief operations in vulnerable areas along the coastline.

Local authorities have urged residents to follow official advisories, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall, and stay tuned to weather bulletins as Murasu nears the coast. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea during the peak impact period.