Cyclone Murasu has caused severe weather conditions along the coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds and disruption to normal life. The developing cyclonic system has raised concerns about coastal safety, damage to property, transportation and the livelihoods of fishing communities. The situation highlights the importance of early weather warnings, disaster preparedness and coordinated emergency response to reduce the impact of tropical cyclones.
Why in News?
Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu crossed the south Andhra Pradesh coast near Ongole during the early hours of 3 November 2026. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone made landfall between Nellore and Narsapur, with wind speeds of 100–110 kmph and gusts reaching 120 kmph.
The cyclone caused widespread damage to coastal districts, affecting transportation, electricity infrastructure, agriculture and fishing activities.
Key Facts About Cyclone Murasu
- Name: Murasu (Murasu)
- Date of Landfall: 3 November 2026
- Landfall Location: Near Ongole, Andhra Pradesh
- Coastal Region: Between Nellore and Narsapur
- Wind Speed: 100–110 kmph, gusting up to 120 kmph
- Monitoring Agency: India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- Origin: Westcentral Bay of Bengal
Impact of Cyclone Murasu on Andhra Pradesh
The cyclone created serious challenges for people living in coastal areas.
1. Damage to Infrastructure
Thousands of trees were uprooted, and hundreds of electricity poles were damaged due to powerful winds. Several areas also experienced waterlogging and flooding.
2. Impact on Agriculture
Standing crops suffered damage due to heavy rainfall and strong winds. Agricultural losses are a major concern for farmers in the affected coastal districts.
3. Fishing Communities Affected
Fishing boats were damaged, while rough sea conditions disrupted fishing activities. Fishermen were advised to stay away from the sea during the cyclone warning period.
4. Transportation Disruption
Heavy rainfall, damaged roads and fallen trees affected road and transport services. Some flight operations were also disrupted due to adverse weather conditions.
Impact on Other States
The effects of Cyclone Murasu were not limited to Andhra Pradesh.
- Tamil Nadu: Heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions affected several coastal areas.
- Telangana: Heavy to very heavy rainfall warnings were issued for several districts.
- Odisha: Authorities strengthened preparedness measures due to the possibility of heavy rainfall.
- Chhattisgarh: Rainfall warnings were also issued for some areas.
Role of IMD and Disaster Management Authorities
The India Meteorological Department played an important role in tracking the cyclone and issuing weather warnings.
The authorities focused on the following measures:
- Issuing cyclone and heavy rainfall alerts.
- Evacuating people from vulnerable coastal locations.
- Deploying disaster response teams for emergency assistance.
- Advising fishermen not to enter the sea.
- Preparing shelters and emergency facilities for affected communities.
Cyclone warnings and timely evacuation are essential for reducing casualties and protecting people during extreme weather events.
What is a Tropical Cyclone?
A tropical cyclone is a powerful rotating storm that develops over warm tropical ocean waters. It is generally associated with strong winds, heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and low atmospheric pressure.
Tropical cyclones can cause coastal flooding, storm surges, damage to infrastructure and loss of life.
In the North Indian Ocean region, including the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, the IMD is responsible for monitoring and issuing warnings related to tropical cyclones.
Important Points for Competitive Examinations
| Topic | Information |
| Cyclone name | Murasu |
| Landfall date | 3 November 2026 |
| Affected state | Andhra Pradesh |
| Landfall area | Near Ongole |
| Ocean basin | Bay of Bengal |
| Weather agency | IMD |
| Major threats | Heavy rainfall, strong winds and flooding |
| Coastal impact | Damage to boats, crops and infrastructure |
Conclusion – Cyclone Murasu
Cyclone Murasu highlights the vulnerability of India’s eastern coastline to tropical cyclones. The damage to agriculture, fishing communities and infrastructure demonstrates the importance of disaster preparedness and early warning systems. Strengthening coastal infrastructure, improving evacuation arrangements and spreading public awareness can help reduce the impact of future cyclones.
