The deep depression over the Bay of Bengal strengthened into the cyclonic storm ‘Michaung’ on Sunday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a maximum sustained wind speed of 80-90 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 100 kmph.
Coastal Tamil Nadu has been experiencing substantial rainfall and powerful winds since Monday morning. The Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai has forecasted that the heavy rain and strong winds will persist in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpattu districts until Monday night.
Despite the city experiencing only 5.5 cm of rain from 6 am on Saturday to 6 am on Sunday, residents in numerous central areas faced challenges as floodwaters refused to recede. The overnight rainfall was irregular.
According to the forecast, it is expected to make landfall along the South Andhra Pradesh coast, specifically between Nellore and Machilipatnam, around the forenoon of December 5.
Approximately 70 incoming and outgoing flights were reportedly cancelled, and both the runway and tarmac remained inactive during this time.
Additionally, due to safety considerations, authorities have halted movement on Bridge No. 14 between Basin Bridge and Vyasarpadi. Southern Railway has cancelled six trains originating from Dr MGR Chennai Central, providing full refunds to impacted passengers.
