The severe cyclonic storm ‘Michaung,’ positioned 90 km northeast of Chennai, has triggered substantial rainfall across multiple districts in Tamil Nadu. The India Meteorological Department Director General, Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, issued a red alert for north coastal Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Yanam on Monday.
In response to Cyclone Michaung’s impact, NDRF personnel visited low-lying areas near the banks of the Kosasthalaiyar River in Tiruvallur district, where heavy rains were witnessed. The incessant rainfall led to internet disruptions and power outages across the state. Michaung is anticipated to move towards Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday after lingering near Chennai and Puducherry on Monday, causing substantial downpours.
The Chennai Regional Meteorology Director reported that Cyclone ‘Michaung’ had intensified into a severe cyclonic storm, moving at 10 km/hr in the northwest direction. It is expected to cross Nellore-Machilipatnam by the following day at noon, causing heavy rainfall and strong winds in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Thiruvallur districts until the evening.
In response to the situation, the Tamil Nadu government officially announced the closure of all educational institutions in Chennai on Tuesday due to anticipated heavy rainfall.
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) took precautionary measures, canceling 60 trains within its jurisdiction and activating a Crisis Management Cell. The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bangalore experienced increased activity as 33 flights from Chennai were diverted to KIA due to severe weather conditions at Chennai airport, resulting in its closure until 11 pm on Monday. Chief Minister MK Stalin urged residents to stay indoors, personally overseeing the control room’s preparedness for managing the cyclone.
The 12 Madras Unit of the Indian Army conducted rescue operations in Chennai’s Mugalivakkam and Manapakkam areas, addressing the impact of intense rainfall and extensive waterlogging. The Tamil Nadu government also appealed to private companies and establishments in specific districts to facilitate work-from-home arrangements for employees on Tuesday, considering the anticipated heavy rains and potential consequences.