Cyclone Michaung made landfall in southeastern India, causing severe floods and leaving at least eight people dead. The “severe cyclonic storm” brought winds of 90-100 kilometers per hour and waves up to 1.5 meters above normal sea levels. Chennai, the regional capital, witnessed chest-high waters surging through the streets, resulting in fatalities, including drowning, electrocution, and injuries.
The cyclone made landfall near the town of Bapatla in Andhra Pradesh state, causing destruction along the coast and impacting areas in Tamil Nadu state. Chennai airport suspended operations, and significant flooding led to the closure of schools, offices, and evacuation efforts.
Indian Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the government is prepared to provide necessary assistance to Andhra Pradesh, with rescue teams deployed and additional support on standby. The cyclone is expected to weaken later on Tuesday evening.
Scientists emphasize that the increasing intensity of storms like Cyclone Michaung is linked to climate change, with warmer ocean temperatures contributing to more powerful cyclones. The event highlights the vulnerability of coastal regions to extreme weather events and underscores the need for climate resilience measures.
Cyclone Michaung’s impact serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by cyclones in the northern Indian Ocean region. The tragic loss of lives and the extensive damage underscore the importance of proactive disaster preparedness, response, and climate mitigation efforts to address the growing threats associated with extreme weather events.
