Cyclone Murasu Makes Landfall in Andhra Pradesh, Heavy Rainfall Continues
The severe cyclonic storm Murasu has crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast, causing significant rainfall and prompting emergency measures.
The eye of Cyclone Murasu crossed the Andhra coast at 5:30 a.m. on November 3, 2026.
Andhra Pradesh government has activated a WhatsApp helpline for disaster reporting.
No casualties have been reported so far, but heavy rainfall continues to affect several districts.
Cyclone Murasu made landfall near Ongole in Andhra Pradesh at 5:30 a.m. on November 3, 2026, bringing with it torrential rains and strong winds. The storm, which had been classified as a severe cyclonic storm, has since weakened but continues to impact the region with heavy rainfall and potential flooding. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the cyclone is moving north-northwest at a speed of 8 km/h and is expected to weaken further into a deep depression by the end of the day.
In response to the cyclone's impact, the Andhra Pradesh government has launched the 'Mana Mitra' WhatsApp helpline to facilitate communication between citizens and local authorities. Residents in affected areas can report issues such as power outages and flooding by sending messages to the dedicated WhatsApp number 9552300009. This initiative aims to streamline disaster management efforts and ensure timely assistance to those in need.
As of now, the IMD has issued flash flood warnings for several districts, including Bapatla and Guntur, where rainfall has exceeded 200 mm in some areas. The highest recorded rainfall was 213.16 mm in Bapatla, with many regions experiencing significant disruptions to daily life. The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, has been actively monitoring the situation and has urged officials to prioritize the safety and well-being of residents.
The cyclone's effects have led to the suspension of train services in the Vijayawada-Ongole-Gudur section to ensure passenger safety. Meanwhile, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed teams across the region to assist with emergency response efforts. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported thus far, but the situation remains precarious as heavy rains continue to pose risks of flooding and damage to infrastructure.
Looking ahead, the Andhra Pradesh government is preparing for ongoing rainfall and potential flooding as Cyclone Murasu continues to affect the region. Authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant and adhere to safety advisories. The situation will be closely monitored, with updates expected as the storm progresses and recovery efforts are initiated.
