Vishakhapatnam
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Tuesday that the landfall process of the severe cyclonic storm Michaung began earlier in the day near Bapatla on the Andhra Pradesh coast and is expected to be complete in the next 2 hours. Michaung has moved northwards at a speed of 10 kilometers per hour, crossing the coast with a wind speed of 90-100 kilometers per hour, gusting to 110 kilometers per hour.
IMD Director Sunanda reported the highest rainfall in Nellore, approximately 21 centimeters in Bapatla, and 15 centimeters in Machilipatnam, with heavy to very heavy rainfall in many areas. The IMD anticipates continued heavy to very heavy rainfall at select locations in south-coastal Andhra Pradesh.
Chennai Airport, which temporarily shut down due to heavy rains causing flooding and waterlogging on runways, has resumed operations. While the rains have stopped, there is slush and filth on the runways and taxiways, being cleared by Civilian Firearms Teams (CFTs) and additional manpower.
Amid the destruction caused by cyclone Michaung, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin stated that the rains during the cyclone period exceeded those in 2015. Despite historical rainfall, the damages are less compared to previous times, and Chennai, having undertaken desilting works, has experienced a lower death toll. Stalin called for collaboration with relief organizations to alleviate suffering. The Chief Minister earlier inspected affected areas, rain relief camps, and mitigation operations in Chennai.
