Cyclone Murasu Update: Severe Storm Heads to Andhra Pradesh Coast, Flights Cancelled and WTA Tournament Postponed

Cyclone Murasu struck the central Bay of Bengal with maximum sustained winds reaching 110 kilometers per hour, prompting authorities in Andhra Pradesh to evacuate thousands of residents ahead of a forecast landfall along the southern coast. Indian Meteorological Department data shows the severe cyclonic storm moving west-northwestwards at 25 kilometers per hour.

Severe Cyclonic Storm Approaches Andhra Pradesh Coast

The severe cyclonic storm is tracking toward the southern coast of Andhra Pradesh, with sustained winds clocked between 100 and 110 kilometers per hour and gusts touching 120 kilometers per hour, according to meteorological assessments. Forecasters place the expected landfall window between midnight on November 2 and the morning of November 3, targeting an area near Ongole between Nellore and Narasapuram. IMD Scientist VR Durai stated in an official briefing that the system is currently positioned over the west-central Bay of Bengal and is not projected to intensify further, having already attained severe cyclonic status.

Evacuations Underway Across Vulnerable Coastal Sectors

State disaster management teams moved approximately 2,000 residents from low-lying areas to designated shelters by early November, while preparations advanced to relocate roughly 30,000 more individuals out of harm’s way. Outer rainbands and storm clouds have already reached Chennai, bringing heavy downpours and strong gusts across coastal corridors. Local authorities urged residents in high-risk zones to strictly follow official advisories, stay indoors during peak wind periods, and avoid unnecessary travel until the weather system clears.

Flight Cancellations Disrupt Vijayवाड़ा Operations

Aviation authorities confirmed the cancellation of 18 IndiGo flight services connected to Vijaywala Airport (VGA) for November 3, following an initial round of 10 cancellations. The disrupted routes include scheduled services linking Vijayawada with New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kadapa, and an international connection to Singapore. Passengers holding confirmed tickets for these dates were advised to check with airline customer service for rescheduling options and refund details before heading to departure terminals.

Sporting Events Postponed Due to Inclement Weather

Tournament organizers called off the opening matches of the WTA open tennis competition scheduled for November 2 after heavy rain and high winds affected venue readiness and player travel. The tournament schedule was adjusted to push competition starts to November 8, pending further weather clearances from regional authorities. Officials emphasized that participant safety remained the primary factor in postponing the fixtures.