Cyclone Michaung Brings Heavy Rainfall and Looms Over Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh
Cyclone Michaung Brings Heavy Rainfall and Looms Over Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh |
Chennai, December 4, 2023 - Cyclone Michaung, positioned approximately 110 km east-northeast of Chennai, has unleashed incessant heavy rainfall across Chennai and neighboring districts, including Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur, and Chengelpet, since Sunday evening.
Currently moving at a speed of 10 kmph in the west-northwest direction, the cyclone is anticipated to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by forenoon today. Meteorological forecasts indicate that Michaung will continue its trajectory parallel to north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh, with a potential landfall expected between Nellore and Machilipatnam by the afternoon of December 5.
Over the last 24 hours, numerous regions have witnessed heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. Perungudi leads the rainfall chart with 29 cm, followed closely by Avadi with 28 cm and Alandur with 25 cm. Notably, Chennai's Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam observatories have recorded significant rainfall, measuring 23 cm and 25 cm respectively, underscoring the intensity of the downpour in the city.
S Balachandran, the deputy director general of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), has cautioned that Chennai and the aforementioned districts should brace for continued heavy rainfall and strong winds until tonight due to the cyclonic impact.
IMD's projections emphasize the need for vigilance in Chennai and its neighboring areas as Michaung progresses, with the potential for adverse weather conditions and persistent rainfall until the specified timeline. Residents are advised to stay updated on official weather alerts and take necessary precautions to ensure safety in light of the evolving cyclonic situation.