Cyclone Michaung Ravages South India: 2 Dead, Flight Operations Halted till 11 PM, Chennai Braces for Impact
In the wake of Cyclone Michaung’s intensification into a severe cyclonic storm, South India faced devastating consequences with heavy rain wreaking havoc in Chennai. The city witnessed tragic fatalities as two lives were lost due to a newly constructed wall collapse in Kanathur, exacerbated by torrential downpours and gusty winds. The impact on Chennai was severe, leading to the suspension of flight operations at the airport until 11 PM due to runway flooding and multiple cancellations/diversions.
The deluge caused significant waterlogging, even prompting the appearance of a mugger crocodile on a road due to rising water levels in low-lying areas. Metro stations weren’t spared either, with St Thomas station submerged under 4 feet of water, halting access for commuters.
In light of the impending cyclone, the Tamil Nadu government declared a two-day public holiday in Chennai and surrounding districts, advocating for ‘work from home’ arrangements for private companies. Essential services remain operational, ensuring continuous healthcare and essential supplies like milk.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) deployed 21 teams across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry, with additional reserves on standby. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued warnings for heavy rainfall in certain districts of Odisha and heightened alerts for coastal and southern districts of West Bengal, anticipating the cyclone’s impact.
As the cyclone threatens further disruption, authorities in Odisha have alerted coastal and southern district collectors, canceling leaves for agriculture field workers and scrapping 60 trains by the East Coast Railway (ECoR). Kolkata and surrounding districts in West Bengal brace for expected rainfall on December 6 and 7.
Amidst the chaos, Akasa Air offered rebooking options for affected travelers between December 4 to 10, extending flexibility till December 17, aiming to alleviate passenger inconveniences caused by the adverse weather conditions.
This impending cyclone demands heightened vigilance and preparedness, urging citizens to prioritize safety measures and adhere to official guidelines for their well-being.
