Southern coast cities flood as cyclone Michaung lashes out, NDRF gears up for relief efforts
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Chennai: As Cyclone Michaung continues its path of destruction, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues warnings of severe impact on the southern coast. Pronounced as "migjaum" and suggested by Myanmar, the name signifies strength and resilience, aptly reflecting the challenges faced by the affected regions.
The cyclone is expected to intensify further, reaching the west-central Bay of Bengal off south Andhra Pradesh and adjoining north Tamil Nadu coasts by Monday forenoon, according to the IMD.
The forecast predicts a severe cyclonic storm with sustained wind speeds of 90-100 kmph, gusting to 110 kmph, as it crosses the South Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Machilipatnam on Tuesday forenoon.
In anticipation of the severe weather conditions, the Tamil Nadu government has urged private companies in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu districts to encourage a work-from-home option for employees. Essential services such as healthcare facilities and milk supply will remain operational.
Six trains originating from Dr MGR Chennai Central have been cancelled, impacting various routes. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has reviewed preparatory measures, with 685 people from vulnerable areas already housed in 11 relief camps across Tiruvallur, Chennai, Kancheepuram, and Chengelpet districts.
The state is well-prepared, with 121 multipurpose centres and 4,967 relief camps equipped with basic amenities in northern and other coastal regions, including the Cauvery delta areas. Tamil Nadu's Disaster Response Force and the National Disaster Response Force have deployed teams in coastal regions for relief and rescue operations.
The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) has been actively involved in coordinating efforts, with Chief Secretaries of Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Puducherry, and the Special Chief Secretary, of Revenue and Disaster Management, Andhra Pradesh briefing the committee on the ongoing preparatory measures.
Light to moderate rainfall is expected in most places, with isolated heavy rainfall over south coastal and adjoining south interior Odisha during December 4-6. The IMD has issued yellow and orange warnings for specific districts, urging residents to stay updated and prepared for potential heavy rainfall.
In Odisha, all coastal and southern district collectors are on alert, and the Agriculture Department has cancelled leave for field workers. The East Coast Railway has cancelled 60 trains and established a round-the-clock helpline to assist passengers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured continuous coordination with the states on the eastern coast, emphasizing relief and rescue efforts. He has urged BJP workers in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh to join local administrations in support efforts.
The impact of Cyclone Michaung may extend to the southern districts of West Bengal, including Kolkata, with light to moderate rainfall predicted on December 6 and 7. The Met Department issues warnings for Purba and Paschim Medinipur, Jhargram, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Kolkata, Howrah, and Hooghly.