In a recent development, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning regarding a depression intensifying over the Southwest Bay of Bengal. The system, currently on a west-northwestward trajectory, is expected to evolve into Cyclonic Storm ‘Michaung’ by December 3, potentially impacting coastal areas of south Andhra Pradesh and north Tamil Nadu. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the situation and the necessary precautions being taken.
As of the latest IMD bulletin on December 1, the depression’s center was located at Latitude 10.3°N and Longitude 85.3°E, approximately 630 km east-southeast of Puducherry. The forecast suggests that the storm will continue its west-northwestward movement, intensifying into a Deep Depression within the next 12 hours and transforming into Cyclonic Storm ‘Michaung’ by December 3.
The projected path of the cyclonic disturbance indicates a shift northwestwards, reaching the vicinity of south Andhra Pradesh and adjoining north Tamil Nadu coasts by the forenoon of December 4. The system is expected to move nearly northwards, running parallel and close to the south Andhra Pradesh coast, with a potential landfall between Nellore and Machilipatnam during the forenoon of December 5. At this time, the Cyclonic Storm is anticipated to have a maximum sustained wind speed of 80-90 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 100 kmph.
In response to the impending threat, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has already conducted a review meeting with district administration heads, issuing guidelines and instructing officials to take precautionary measures, including the evacuation of residents from vulnerable areas.
The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), led by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, has also reviewed the preparedness of state governments and central ministries and departments in anticipation of Cyclone ‘Michaung.’
Rainfall Forecast:
Meteorological authorities have issued a comprehensive rainfall warning for several regions in southern and eastern India. In North coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, light to moderate rainfall is expected on December 2, with isolated heavy rainfall. The intensity of rainfall is projected to increase from December 3 onwards, with most places experiencing rain and heavy to very heavy rainfall, and isolated extremely heavy rainfall anticipated on December 3. Similar patterns continue on December 4 and 5, with a subsequent decrease in rainfall.
Coastal Andhra Pradesh residents should prepare for light to moderate rainfall on December 3, escalating to heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places and extremely heavy rainfall at isolated locations. The pattern continues on December 4 and 5, with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall.
Odisha is also likely to experience light to moderate rainfall on December 4, with isolated heavy rainfall over south Coastal and adjoining south Interior Odisha. On December 5, isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted over the same region.
Conclusion:
As we face the imminent threat of Cyclonic Storm ‘Michaung,’ it is crucial for residents in the affected regions to stay informed and follow the guidelines issued by local authorities. Precautionary measures, including evacuation plans, should be taken seriously to ensure the safety of individuals and communities. Stay tuned to official weather updates and news channels for the latest information on the cyclone’s progress.
In these challenging times, we urge everyone to prioritize safety and take the necessary precautions. Whether you are in the potential path of the cyclone or not, being prepared is the key to minimizing risks and ensuring the well-being of yourself and your loved ones. Take care, stay safe, and let’s weather this storm together.