Cyclone Michaung, which originated from the Bay of Bengal on December 2, is set to reach Andhra Pradesh by December 5, likely hitting between Nellore and Machilipatnam. The cyclone has prompted a high alert across Andhra Pradesh, with a red alert issued in several districts, including Tirupati, Prakasam, Bapatla, Krishna, West Godavari, and Kakinada. In response, authorities have deployed 5 teams each of NDRF and SDRF in eight districts.
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, bore the brunt of the storm, experiencing unprecedented rainfall not seen in 70-80 years, leading to the loss of five lives.
IF EVERY TIME
EVERY WHERE
ARMY HAS TO GO AND RESCUE THESE PEOPLEWhat is this #SouthIndianPups and his useless father doing? Sucking on their thumbs 👍??#cyclonemichaung
pic.twitter.com/xsXltJquEW— Dr MJ Augustine Vinod 🇮🇳 (@mjavinod) December 4, 2023
Disruption to Daily Life
The cyclone has severely impacted transportation, resulting in the cancellation of 204 trains and over 70 flights. Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have seen the deployment of 21 NDRF teams. Additionally, the Army’s 12 Madras Unit evacuated 500 individuals from Mugalivakkam and Manapakkam areas. The Coast Guard and Navy remain on standby.
Government Response and Public Safety
In response to Cyclone Michaung, the Tamil Nadu government declared a public holiday in four districts and encouraged work-from-home arrangements, except for essential services, in Chennai, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu, and Tiruvallur.
I commend our dedicated Karyakarthas for braving the severe rain to serve the people in Chennai affected by the #Michaung cyclone. @KaruNagarajan @VinojBJP pic.twitter.com/Rwqr7Crfhq
— K.Annamalai (மோடியின் குடும்பம்) (@annamalai_k) December 4, 2023
Airport Chaos and Closures
Chennai International Airport experienced flooding, leading to the closure of its runway until 9 am on Tuesday, with flights redirected to Bengaluru. The airport reported the cancellation of more than 70 flights due to the adverse weather conditions.
If he has any iota of shame, Stalin must resign.#CycloneMichaungpic.twitter.com/UdxqRzcweu
— 🎙️Sheriff Ali Ibn El Kharish (@mindgage) December 4, 2023
Meteorological Forecast and Local Impact
The Meteorological Department forecasts reduced rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday in Chennai. Residential areas suffered significant flooding, with reports of water levels reaching five feet. Notably, a crocodile was spotted navigating the roads in Perungalthur, Chennai.
