Cyclonic Storm ‘Murasu’ Forecasted to Intensify and Impact Tamil Nadu
Cyclone Murasu is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, to northern Tamil Nadu starting Monday.
Cyclone Murasu is currently located 420 km east-southeast of Chennai and is moving west-northwest.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecasted for several districts, including Chennai and Tiruvallur, with potential thunderstorms.
Schools in Chennai will be closed on Monday due to anticipated heavy rains.
The cyclonic storm named 'Murasu' is currently situated over the Southwest and adjoining Westcentral Bay of Bengal, moving west-northwest at a speed of 25 km/h. As of 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, it was approximately 420 km east-southeast of Chennai. Meteorologists predict that the storm will intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by Monday morning, with further movement expected towards the northwest, potentially making landfall along the south Andhra Pradesh coast with wind speeds between 100 to 120 km/h.
In anticipation of the storm's impact, the Regional Meteorological Centre has issued warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall across various districts in Tamil Nadu. The forecast indicates that isolated areas in Tiruvallur, Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Nilgiris are likely to experience significant rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Other districts, including Vellore and Tiruvannamalai, may also see moderate rainfall, while light rain is expected in other regions of the state.
From 8:30 a.m. on Monday, heavy rain is anticipated in Chennai and Tiruvallur, with gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 km/h in some areas. In response to the severe weather forecast, Chennai District Collector S. Malathi Helen has declared a holiday for schools in the district on Monday to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The storm's effects are expected to extend beyond Monday, with heavy rainfall predicted for Tuesday, particularly in the Nilgiris district. Moderate rainfall is also forecasted for other parts of northern Tamil Nadu and the Western Ghats, while light to moderate rain may occur in the remaining areas of the state.
As the situation develops, residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions due to the storm. Authorities will continue to monitor the cyclone's path and provide updates on weather conditions and safety measures as necessary.
