Cyclone Murasu Approaches Indian Coast, Schools Closed and Flights Cancelled
Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu was located northeast of Chennai and east-southeast of Nellore on Monday, November 2, 2026, moving west-northwestwards. Authorities in Chennai and Tiruvallur districts closed schools and colleges, and several flights were cancelled at Chennai Airport due to the cyclone.
By The Junior Post
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Recommended for ages 10+. Editorial guidance, not a guarantee of individual suitability.
On Monday, November 2, 2026, Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu was observed about 180 kilometers northeast of Chennai and 160 kilometers east-southeast of Nellore. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the storm was moving in a west-northwest direction at a speed of 22 kilometers per hour.
In response to the approaching cyclone and the forecast of heavy rains, officials took precautionary measures. The District Collectors of Chennai and Tiruvallur announced that all schools and colleges in their districts would be closed on Monday, November 2, 2026. This decision was made to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The cyclone also affected air travel. Chennai Airport authorities confirmed that eleven flights were cancelled on Monday due to Cyclone Murasu. Passengers were advised to contact their airlines for updated information. Weather alerts were also issued for other regions: an orange alert for six districts in Telangana and a yellow alert for five other districts in Telangana for Monday. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall was also forecast for coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema on November 2 and 3, with orange alerts in five south Odisha districts on November 3.
Knowledge Vault
Cyclonic Storms
Cyclonic storms are large, rotating weather systems that form over warm ocean waters. They are characterized by strong winds spiraling inwards towards a low-pressure center, bringing heavy rainfall and sometimes storm surges to coastal areas. Different categories of cyclones exist, with 'Severe Cyclonic Storm' indicating a particular strength.
Weather Alerts
Weather alerts, such as yellow, orange, and red alerts, are issued by meteorological departments to warn the public about potentially dangerous weather conditions. These alerts help people and authorities take necessary precautions. A yellow alert means 'be aware', an orange alert means 'be prepared', and a red alert means 'take action'.
Precautionary Measures
Precautionary measures are actions taken in advance to prevent harm or reduce the impact of a potential danger. In the case of a cyclone, these can include closing schools, cancelling flights, and advising people to stay indoors or prepare for heavy rainfall, to keep everyone safe.
Check your understanding
- What was the main reason for schools and colleges being closed in Chennai and Tiruvallur districts on November 2, 2026?
- To celebrate a holiday.
- Due to a severe cyclonic storm and heavy rain forecast.
- Because of a sudden power outage.
- For annual maintenance work.
- Which organization provided information about the location and movement of Severe Cyclonic Storm Murasu?
- Chennai Airport Authorities
- District Collectors
- India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- Local school boards
- What kind of alert was issued for six districts in Telangana on Monday, November 2, 2026?
- Green alert
- Yellow alert
- Orange alert
- Red alert