Chennai: Tropical Storm Michaung is set to intensify, reaching north Tamil Nadu on December 4 and making landfall in southern Andhra Pradesh. Continuous heavy rain has deluged Chennai and surrounding areas, prompting Tamil Nadu to declare December 4 a public holiday. Unfortunately, tragedy struck as two fatalities occurred, and one person sustained injuries due to a wall collapse in Kanathur, Chennai, amid the torrential downpour.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported an exceptionally high rainfall of 23 cm at the Meenambakkam Class I observatory by 7:30 am on December 4. The statement from the Tamil Nadu IMD highlighted widespread Very Heavy rainfall across Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengelpet, and Kanchipuram Districts. This intense precipitation is attributed to the impact of cyclonic storm Michaung.
Chennai, along with Chengalpet, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur districts, has been grappling with widespread rains since late Sunday, amplifying the challenges posed by the cyclonic storm. In response to the severe weather conditions, Chennai Airport temporarily suspended operations for two hours due to heavy rain and flooding. The impact of the storm forced the diversion of at least ten flights bound for Chennai to Bengaluru, a precautionary measure amid challenging weather and strong winds.
The Alandur subway also witnessed significant inundation, adding to the woes of the affected regions. As the cyclonic storm Michaung progresses, the situation remains dynamic, requiring continued vigilance and preparedness from authorities and residents alike.
This weather-related disruption serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of coastal regions during cyclonic events, emphasizing the importance of timely alerts, evacuation measures, and infrastructure resilience to minimize the impact on lives and property. The declaration of a public holiday in Tamil Nadu underscores the seriousness of the situation, urging people to prioritize safety during this challenging weather episode.