Cyclone Murasu Intensifies: Schools Shut in Chennai and Tiruvallur, Heavy Rain Alert for Andhra Pradesh and Odisha

Authorities in Tamil Nadu have announced the closure of schools and colleges in Chennai and Tiruvallur as Cyclone Murasu intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, raising concerns about heavy rainfall, strong winds and possible flooding across parts of the eastern coast. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather warnings for several coastal districts, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, as the weather system moves towards the Indian coastline. Disaster management authorities have stepped up preparations to deal with the possible impact of the cyclone.

According to the weather department's forecast, the system is expected to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast near Ongole, between Nellore and Narsapur, around midnight on November 2 or during the early hours of November 3. The cyclone is likely to bring wind speeds of 100–110 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 120 kmph, potentially affecting coastal settlements, transport services and electricity infrastructure.

In Tamil Nadu, the decision to suspend educational activities in Chennai and Tiruvallur was taken as a precautionary measure amid forecasts of heavy rainfall. Other districts, including Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet and Vellore, are also expected to experience adverse weather conditions. Andhra Pradesh is likely to face significant rainfall as the cyclone approaches land. Coastal districts, including Prakasam, Bapatla, Krishna, NTR and West Godavari, are among the areas requiring close monitoring. Officials have been directed to strengthen emergency arrangements and remain prepared for possible flooding, power disruptions and damage caused by strong winds.

Odisha has also stepped up its preparedness, with rainfall activity expected to increase in parts of the state. Southern districts, particularly Ganjam and Gajapati, could experience heavy rainfall as the cyclone influences regional weather conditions. Fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea due to rough conditions along the affected coastline. Residents in vulnerable and low-lying areas have been urged to follow instructions issued by local authorities and move to safer locations if evacuation orders are announced.

Emergency response teams are being kept on standby to deal with potential incidents, including waterlogging, fallen trees and disruptions to essential services. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, secure loose objects around their homes, keep emergency supplies ready and monitor official weather bulletins.

Authorities have also cautioned people against believing unverified information circulating on social media, urging them to rely on updates from the IMD and respective district administrations. The situation remains under close watch as Cyclone Murasu approaches the coast. Further developments will depend on the system's movement, intensity and rainfall distribution over the coming hours.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.