According to the most recent update from the Indian Meteorological Department, the cyclonic storm ‘Michaung’ swirling over the South Bay of Bengal has intensified, transforming into a severe cyclonic storm. At 8:30 a.m. on December 4, the storm was about 90 kilometers east of Chennai, prompting meteorologists to issue a warning about the impending disaster.
‘Michaung’ is expected to move north-northwestward and toward the Westcentral Bay of Bengal near south Andhra Pradesh and the adjoining north Tamil Nadu coasts by this afternoon.
The meteorological department foresees ‘Michaung’ intensifying further and transitioning into a severe cyclonic storm, exhibiting a maximum sustained wind speed of 90–100 kmph with gusts up to 110 kmph. It’s projected to traverse almost parallel to the south Andhra Pradesh coast and make landfall between Nellore and Machilipatnam on December 5, primarily impacting the region.
In response to the imminent threat, an orange alert has been issued for Andhra Pradesh and the adjacent north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts, signaling the need for heightened caution and preparedness.
Preempting heavy to very heavy rainfall on December 4th and 5th across north coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and coastal Andhra Pradesh, the IMD has cautioned about potential flooding in several areas. The downpour in Chennai has already caused severe waterlogging, submerging vehicles, disrupting traffic, and leading to the closure of Chennai’s airfield until 11 p.m. due to inclement weather conditions.
Additionally, the deluge has adversely affected railway operations, with eleven express trains from Chennai Central being cancelled after water levels surged dangerously near Vyasarpadi and Basin Bridge due to incessant rainfall. The situation remains critical as residents brace themselves for the impending impact of cyclone ‘Michaung’.