Cyclone Michaung

1. IMD issues an orange alert as the Bay of Bengal low-pressure area intensifies.
2. Transformation into Cyclone Michaung is expected within the next 48 hours.
3. Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh anticipate heavy rain and strong winds from December 3.

Chennai, Dec 02: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has heightened concerns with an orange alert as a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal intensifies into a depression, poised to transform into Cyclone Michaung within the next 48 hours. Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh are bracing for heavy rain and strong winds starting December 3.

Earlier IMD forecasts predicted the cyclone’s west-north-westward movement, deepening into a depression by December 2, and further escalating into a cyclonic storm over the southwest Bay of Bengal by December 3. The anticipated path projects a landfall along the north Tamil Nadu coast, between Nellore and Machilipatnam, with wind speeds reaching 100 kmph on December 4.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has instructed officials to implement precautionary measures, including the relocation of residents from potentially impacted areas. Fishermen have been warned to avoid venturing into the sea during this period.

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IMD warnings and alerts span various regions. In North Coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, light to moderate rainfall is expected on December 2, intensifying from December 3. Coastal Andhra Pradesh is also anticipating light to moderate rainfall, with heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas on December 3-4.

The IMD cautions against potential dangers, including damage to thatched huts, structural vulnerability, the risk of tree branches breaking, and the uprooting of small and medium-sized trees.

Minor damages to power and communication lines are expected, along with significant harm to kutcha structures and minor damage to pucca roads due to heavy rain. Additionally, the weather agency foresees damage to paddy crops, horticultural crops, and orchards.

With Cyclone Michaung set to make landfall in the coastal region of North Tamil Nadu on December 4, schools in Puducherry, Karaikal, and Yanam will remain closed during this period. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and adhere to safety protocols to minimize potential damages and ensure public safety.