Cyclone Murasu threatens Andhra Pradesh; schools shut across region

Cyclone Murasu is expected to cross the southern coast of Andhra Pradesh in the early hours of November 3, bringing severe weather conditions across a multi-state region. The India Meteorological Department has forecasted maximum sustained wind speeds of up to 120 kilometres per hour at landfall, with rough to very rough sea conditions anticipated along the Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring coasts.

Schools have been ordered shut in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka as a precautionary measure ahead of the storm's arrival. State governments have activated emergency response protocols, with disaster management teams positioned across vulnerable coastal and inland districts to respond to potential flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage.

Meteorological alerts have been issued for five states across South and Southeast India, with heavy to very heavy rainfall expected throughout November 3 and into subsequent days. The cyclone's track and intensity are being closely monitored by weather agencies, with updates issued every three hours to guide relief and rescue operations.

Ship operators have been advised to move vessels to safer harbours, while fishing communities have been asked to suspend operations during the storm passage. State authorities have stockpiled emergency supplies, activated relief camps, and ensured evacuation procedures are ready for implementation in high-risk coastal areas.