Severe cyclonic storm ‘Murasu’, which has formed over the Bay of Bengal, is currently positioned over the west-central Bay of Bengal and has been moving west-northwestwards at a speed of 22 kmph over the past six hours.
According to Manorama Mohanty, Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, the cyclone is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapur, to the south of Ongole.
The storm is expected to make landfall between 11:30 pm on November 2 and 4 am on November 3. At the time of landfall, wind speeds are likely to reach 100–110 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 120 kmph. The cyclone is expected to gradually weaken after crossing the coast.
Rainfall Forecast for Odisha
Although Odisha is unlikely to experience any significant direct impact from the cyclone, several parts of the state may receive rainfall. Heavy rainfall is expected in some districts of southern Odisha.
Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph are also likely in some areas.
During the next 24 hours, light to moderate rainfall is expected at many places across the state. Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri districts may experience heavy rainfall, with one or two places likely to receive 7–12 cm of rain.
Fishermen Advised Against Venturing into Sea
Considering the possibility of rough sea conditions from November 2 to November 4, fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea during this period.
Meanwhile, Local Cautionary Signal No. 3 (LC-3) has been issued at ports in view of the approaching cyclone.
The weather conditions are expected to improve from November 5, with a significant reduction in rainfall across Odisha. No weather warnings are likely to remain in force from that day.