Chennai, November 2, 2026: Chennai is on high alert as Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu moves closer to the south Andhra Pradesh coast, bringing the threat of heavy to very heavy rainfall across northern Tamil Nadu. With weather conditions deteriorating, authorities have announced school closures in Chennai and neighbouring Tiruvallur as a precautionary measure.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Murasu has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm over the west-central and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal. The system is moving west-northwestwards and is expected to cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur, near Ongole, between late Monday night and the early hours of Tuesday, November 3.
Schools Closed in Chennai and Tiruvallur
In view of the heavy rainfall warning, the Chennai district administration has declared a holiday for schools and colleges on Monday, November 2. Authorities in neighbouring Tiruvallur have also announced educational institution closures as a precautionary measure.
The Regional Meteorological Centre has issued an orange alert for Chennai and Tiruvallur, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall. Isolated locations could receive rainfall of around 12–20 cm within 24 hours.
Other districts, including Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore and the Nilgiris, are also expected to experience heavy rainfall.
Cyclone Murasu: Expected Landfall and Wind Speed
The IMD’s latest update indicates that Cyclone Murasu was approximately 200 kilometres east-northeast of Chennai at 5:30 am on Monday.
The cyclone is forecast to make landfall along the south Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Narsapur, close to Ongole, between 11:30 pm on November 2 and 4 am on November 3.
At the time of landfall, wind speeds are expected to reach 100–110 kmph, with gusts potentially reaching 120 kmph.
Although Chennai is not expected to be the cyclone’s landfall location, its outer rain bands could bring intense rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds to the city and surrounding districts.
Authorities on High Alert
The Tamil Nadu Revenue Administration and Disaster Management Department has directed district collectors to remain on high alert and take necessary precautionary measures.
Officials have been instructed to mobilise emergency response teams, monitor vulnerable areas and ensure that arrangements are in place to respond to any weather-related emergencies.
Meanwhile, neighbouring Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are also preparing for the cyclone’s impact, with disaster response teams deployed and evacuation measures underway in vulnerable locations.
Safety Advisory for Residents
Residents in Chennai and other affected districts are advised to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall.
- Stay away from waterlogged roads, low-lying areas and flooded underpasses.
- Avoid standing near electric poles, transformers and fallen power lines.
- Follow official IMD weather bulletins and district administration announcements.
- Keep emergency essentials, drinking water and necessary medicines readily available.
Fishermen have also been advised to avoid venturing into affected sea areas during the warning period.
What Happens Next?
Cyclone Murasu is expected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast during the night of November 2 and early morning of November 3. While rainfall intensity in Chennai may gradually decrease after the system moves inland, several districts across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states could continue experiencing rain.
Residents are urged to remain alert and follow official weather updates as authorities closely monitor the cyclone’s movement and potential impact.
