CHENNAI/ HYDERABAD, India: While taking precautionary measures in anticipation of the impending severe cyclonic storm, Cyclone Michaung, authorities in southern India shut schools and offices and evacuated thousands from coastal areas on Monday.
Flights were also halted due to the torrential rains accompanying the storm. According to India’s weather office, Cyclone Michaung is anticipated to make landfall on the coast of Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday morning. The cyclone is expected to bring sustained winds ranging from 90-100 kph (56-62 mph), with gusts reaching 110 kph.
In response to the potential threat, authorities in Andhra Pradesh and neighboring Tamil Nadu were on high alert, warning fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea. In Andhra Pradesh, nearly 7,000 individuals in eight coastal districts had already been evacuated, and preparations were underway to evacuate an additional 28,000 people based on the cyclone’s path and severity, as a senior official from the state’s disaster management department reported.
Tamil Nadu declared a public holiday in four coastal districts and advised residents of Chennai, the state capital, to stay indoors unless necessary. Chennai airport experienced disruptions, with operations suspended for two hours on Monday morning due to heavy rains in the city. Multiple flights were either canceled or diverted to alternative cities.
