1. Cyclonic storm ‘Michaung’ upgraded to severe cyclonic storm.
2. Warnings issued for coastal regions of south Andhra Pradesh and north Tamil Nadu.
3. Anticipated landfall on December 5, causing heavy rainfall and disruptions in Chennai.
Chennai, Dec 04: Cyclonic storm ‘Michaung’ has escalated into a severe cyclonic storm, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue warnings for the coastal regions of south Andhra Pradesh and north Tamil Nadu.
The cyclone is anticipated to make landfall on December 5, affecting areas such as Chennai, where heavy rainfall has already led to waterlogging and transportation disruptions. IMD forecasts the storm’s maximum sustained wind speed to reach 90-100 kmph, gusting up to 110 kmph during landfall.
The impact of Cyclone Michaung has been evident in Chennai, causing severe waterlogging in low-lying areas, hospitals, and residential zones. Civic agency personnel are actively engaged in alleviating the situation. The adverse weather conditions have disrupted train and flight services, leading to cancellations and delays. The Chennai bench of the Madras High Court and all district courts in the city remain closed due to the inclement weather.
Several domestic outbound and international flights have been canceled, affecting destinations like Ahmedabad and Thiruvananthapuram.
Additionally, express trains departing from Chennai Central have been canceled, and suburban train services have been temporarily suspended. The situation has been exacerbated by trees uprooted from strong winds and water levels surpassing the danger mark at certain locations.
Also Read: Crime Against Women and Children Sees 4% and 8.7% Increase in 2022: NCRB Report
In anticipation of heavy rainfall and potential damage, Tamil Nadu has declared a public holiday. The principal bench of the Madras High Court and district courts in Chennai will remain closed. To prevent potential loss of life and property, Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code has been imposed on coastal areas near the seashore of Puducherry, restricting movement until December 5.
The IMD’s delayed annual report “Crime in India 2022” highlights alarming increases in crimes against women, children, senior citizens, Scheduled Castes (SC), and Scheduled Tribes (ST). The report, based on nationwide data, reveals rises of 4%, 8.7%, 9.3%, 13.1%, and 14.3%, respectively, indicating concerning trends in the country.
Cyclone Michaung’s impact is expected to persist, affecting various facets of life, including transportation, legal proceedings, and public activities. Authorities are actively monitoring the situation and implementing measures to mitigate the potential consequences of the severe cyclonic storm.
