The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high-alert warning as Severe Cyclonic Storm 'Michaung' intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, poised to make landfall near Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh today. The cyclone is expected to bring destructive winds reaching 90-100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph, posing significant threats to coastal communities.
Emergency Measures Activated Across Three States
Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu have initiated comprehensive disaster response protocols. In Andhra Pradesh, authorities have evacuated residents from low-lying coastal areas and deployed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams in vulnerable districts including Tirupati, Nellore, and Prakasam.
Key preparedness measures include:
- Emergency operation centers operating 24/7 in all coastal districts
- Fishing activities completely suspended along the entire coastline
- Special attention to ports, including Visakhapatnam and Kakinada, with shipping activities halted
- Relief camps established with essential supplies in safe locations
Weather Impact and Rainfall Projections
The IMD forecasts extremely heavy rainfall across coastal Andhra Pradesh and north coastal Tamil Nadu, with isolated areas potentially receiving over 200 mm of precipitation. Odisha's southern districts, particularly Gajapati and Ganjam, are also on high alert for substantial rainfall and squally winds.
"The cyclone's impact will be most severe in coastal Andhra districts, with Kakinada and surrounding areas experiencing the brunt of the landfall," stated an IMD official during a press briefing.
Transportation and Infrastructure Disruptions
The cyclone has already begun affecting regional transportation networks. Several trains passing through the region have been cancelled or rescheduled, while flight operations at Visakhapatnam airport face potential disruptions. Educational institutions across multiple districts will remain closed as a precautionary measure.
State governments have established helplines and emergency contact numbers for citizens requiring assistance, emphasizing the importance of staying indoors and following official advisories during the critical period.
