Cyclone Murasu Makes Landfall Near Ongole, Heavy Rain And Strong Winds Lash Andhra Pradesh

Ongole, Nov 3: Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu made landfall along the South Andhra Pradesh coast near Ongole on Tuesday, triggering heavy rainfall and strong winds across several coastal districts.

Wind speeds of 100–110 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 120 kmph, were reported during the landfall process, which began between Nellore and Narsapur during the early hours of November 3.

Prakasam district, particularly Kothapatnam Beach near Ongole, witnessed intense rainfall and powerful winds, disrupting normal activities and raising concerns over coastal safety.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the storm was located around 20 km east-southeast of Ongole during the landfall process. K. Nagaratna, Head of the IMD Meteorological Centre in Hyderabad, said gale-force winds of 100–110 kmph, with gusts up to 120 kmph, continued to affect the region.

The IMD has issued red alerts for six districts — Krishna, Guntur, Bapatla, Palnadu, NTR and Prakasam — warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall.

Meanwhile, several parts of Vijayawada have experienced continuous rainfall since Monday night. Puducherry has also witnessed persistent showers as the cyclone’s outer rain bands affect North Tamil Nadu and adjoining coastal regions.

In view of the adverse weather conditions, the IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea until the morning of November 4. Offshore and onshore operations have also been suspended until further review.

Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable coastal areas to remain indoors, follow official advisories and avoid visiting beaches and other exposed locations.