Bhubaneswar, Oct 2: Cyclone ‘Murasu’ is expected to intensify into a Severe Cyclonic Storm by Monday, bringing the threat of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several districts of Odisha. The system is likely to make landfall along the southern Andhra Pradesh coast between late Monday night and the early hours of Tuesday.

Although Odisha is unlikely to experience strong cyclonic winds, the storm's outer rain bands could trigger intense rainfall, raising concerns over flooding in five districts of southern Odisha. The warning comes at a time when several areas are already grappling with flood-related difficulties.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Murasu is likely to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narasapur. At the time of landfall, the system may pack sustained wind speeds of 100–110 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 120 kmph. After crossing the coast, the severe cyclonic storm is expected to weaken into a cyclonic storm.

The outer circulation of the system may pass close to Malkangiri and Koraput districts, bringing heavy to extremely heavy rainfall to parts of Odisha.

Orange Alert for Five Southern Odisha Districts

The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall in several districts of southern Odisha over the next few days.

On Monday, heavy rainfall is likely in Gajapati and Ganjam districts. Other districts, including Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Puri and Khordha, may also receive significant rainfall.

On Tuesday (December 3) and Wednesday (December 4), very heavy rainfall is likely in Rayagada, Koraput, Malkangiri, Gajapati and Ganjam districts. The IMD has issued an Orange Warning for these districts.

Wind speeds of 50–60 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 70 kmph, may prevail in these areas over the two days.

Heavy rainfall could lead to localised flooding and waterlogging. Hilly regions may also face an increased risk of landslides due to continuous downpours.

JTWC Predicts Stronger Winds at Landfall

Meanwhile, the US-based Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) has projected that the system could have wind speeds of around 130 kmph at landfall, with gusts reaching up to 148 kmph.

Citing JTWC model projections, senior meteorologist Professor Surendranath Pashupalak said the cyclone could cross the coast between 2 am on December 3 and 5:30 am on the same day.

After landfall, wind speeds in the interior parts of Andhra Pradesh may reduce to around 83 kmph.

He further warned that if the cyclone's outer rain bands extend towards Odisha, rainfall activity could intensify across southern parts of the state.

Ganjam and Gajapati Likely to Receive Heavy Rain

Several locations in Ganjam district, including Gopalpur, Chhatrapur, Berhampur and Chikiti, may experience heavy rainfall.

The hilly areas of Gajapati district are also likely to receive intense showers in some locations.

However, Pashupalak said the possibility of damaging cyclonic winds reaching Odisha remains low. Strong wind gusts along the southern coastal belt and high sea waves are still possible.

With the possibility of intense rainfall, flooding and landslides, residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert and follow official weather advisories.