Cyclone Michaung: Heavy Rains In Chennai, Other Southern States; Flights Cancelled, Schools Shut, More

As Cyclone Michaung approaches the eastern coast of India, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded the alarm for several regions, with Southern Odisha districts on high alert, Section 144 imposed in Puducherry, and precautionary measures underway in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The cyclonic storm, currently active over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by Monday.

The IMD has issued a Yellow Warning for five southern Odisha districts - Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati, and Ganjam - predicting 7 to 11 cm of rainfall on Monday. An Orange Warning indicates an increase in intensity on December 5. Additionally, districts like Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, and Puri have also been put on alert. The IMD forecasts heavy rainfall in the range of 7 to 20 cm in these areas on December 5.

Anticipating Cyclone Michaung's impact on the west-central Bay of Bengal, the Puducherry district administration has imposed Section 144 in coastal areas near the seashore, effective from 7 pm on December 3 until 6 pm on December 5. This preventive measure aims to restrict movement and prevent potential loss of life and property.

In response to the cyclone threat, the NTR district in Andhra Pradesh has declared holidays for all educational institutions on December 4 and 5. Simultaneously, the Tamil Nadu government has announced a public holiday on Monday, urging private companies in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu districts to promote the 'work from home' option for employees.

The IMD has issued heavy rainfall warnings for several regions, including north-coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, Telangana, and Odisha. The intensity of rainfall is expected to vary during the cyclone.

Cyclone Michaung is projected to make landfall between Nellore and Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday afternoon, bringing winds with speeds of up to 100 mph. The IMD has issued alerts and warnings to ensure preparedness and safety measures.

The railways have cancelled a total of 118 trains in anticipation of Cyclone Michaung. The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has set up a round-the-clock helpline to provide information and assistance to passengers. ECoR officials have assured an early restoration plan for train traffic and tracks in case of disruptions caused by the cyclone.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been in constant touch with the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, coordinating relief and rescue efforts. This approach aims to ensure a swift and effective response to the potential impact of the Cyclone.

The authorities are taking preventive measures to protect vulnerable communities. The Greater Chennai Corporation commissioner and district collectors have been instructed to house people in cyclone shelters, particularly those in low-lying areas. The public has been advised against venturing near water bodies, taking selfies, or parking vehicles under trees.