Cyclone Michaung intensifies in Tamil Nadu; Five feared dead

Cyclone Michaung has resulted in significant impacts, including five reported deaths in Tamil Nadu. Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), describes the cyclone as severe, positioned 90 km northeast of Chennai. It is expected to move parallel to the Andhra Pradesh coast, with wind speeds reaching 90-100 km/h. A red alert has been issued for north coastal Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Yanam, advising fishermen to avoid the sea until December 6.

In response to the adverse weather conditions, the Tamil Nadu government has announced the closure of educational institutions, government offices, and banks in specific districts. Chennai has been particularly affected, leading to the diversion of 33 flights to Kempegowda International Airport. The Chennai Airport Authority has suspended flight operations until 9 am tomorrow due to adverse weather, causing disruptions for airlines like Indigo, SpiceJet, Etihad, Lufthansa, and Gulf Air.

The Greater Chennai Police report five deaths due to various reasons, including electrocution and falling trees. The IMD predicts that Cyclone Michaung will cross the south Andhra Pradesh coast as a severe cyclonic storm on December 5. Both Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have undertaken evacuation measures, setting up relief camps and deploying personnel for rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

In Chennai, heavy rains have forced the closure of the airport, and the production of Apple iPhones at a Foxconn facility near the city has temporarily halted. The Indian Army has conducted rescues in flood-affected areas, while the Railway Ministry has established emergency control cells to address challenges posed by the cyclone.

The state governments have instructed essential services, such as milk and water supply, hospitals, power, and disaster response offices, to operate as usual. Private companies have been urged to allow employees to work from home. The situation is being closely monitored, with relief efforts actively involving representatives from local bodies and various government departments.