World
Cyclonic Storm Murasu Intensifies and Approaches Andhra Pradesh
Cyclonic Storm Murasu is set to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh, with evacuations underway in vulnerable regions of Odisha.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that a depression in the Bay of Bengal has intensified into Cyclonic Storm Murasu. The storm is moving northwest at a speed of 20 km/h and is expected to make landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast between Narsapur and Nellore on November 3, with wind speeds reaching 100-110 km/h and gusts of up to 120 km/h.
Following the recent Cyclone Arnab, officials have issued a red alert for five districts in Andhra Pradesh as preparations intensify for the approaching storm. IMD director general Mrutyunjay Mohapatra has stated that Murasu is likely to develop into a severe cyclonic storm by Monday morning, bringing heavy rainfall to parts of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
The Odisha government has initiated evacuation plans, relocating approximately 160,000 people from vulnerable areas to safer locations. The focus is on protecting districts such as Ganjam, Gajapati, Malkangiri, Koraput, and Kandhamal, which are anticipated to be significantly impacted by the storm's severe weather conditions.

NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) and SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) teams have been deployed in the districts that are expected to face the brunt of Murasu. These teams are set to assist in rescue and relief operations ahead of the storm's landfall.
As Murasu approaches the coast, authorities are closely monitoring the evolving situation and maintaining communication with communities in affected regions. The IMD continues to issue updates on the storm's path and potential impacts, reinforcing safety measures as the situation unfolds.
Reports indicate that Murasu has already crossed the Andhra coast, leading to heavy rainfall across the region. Local authorities and the IMD are keeping a vigilant watch on the storm's effects as they assess infrastructure integrity and community safety following its passage.