As Cyclone Michaung weakened into a deep depression over coastal Andhra Pradesh post-landfall, the ravages of its intense rainfall and flooding left at least 17 dead in parts of Chennai since last Sunday.Cyclone Michaung weakens into deep depression over AndhraTaking it to X, the India Meteorological Department said, “Cyclonic Storm MICHAUNG weakened into a Deep Depression over Central Coastal AP. About 100 km north-northwest of Bapatla and 50 km southeast of Khammam. To weaken further into a Depression in next 06 hours and further into a WML during subsequent 06 hours.”Cyclonic Storm “MICHAUNG” weakened into a Deep Depression over Central Coastal AP. About 100 km north-northwest of Bapatla and 50 km southeast of https://t.co/W1UMY7yYGa weaken further into a Depression in next 06 hours and further into a WML during subsequent 06 hours. pic.twitter.com/KFD2BjBMvn— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) December 5, 202317 dead due to rain fury in ChennaiOn Tuesday, the police officials monitoring the fallout stated that multiple cases of drowning and electrocution have occurred across Tamil Nadus capital where the storm brought normal life to a standstill through Monday and Tuesday prompting disaster mitigation efforts.After the weather department forecast Michaung making landfall near Mamallapuram by early Tuesday, authorities scrambled to evacuate citizens from vulnerable neighbourhoods to over 400 designated relief shelters while dispatching personnel to drain waterlogging and restore snapped power lines.Tamil Nadu governments stanceIn 48 hours we received approximately 500 mm of record rainfall – more than during the 2015 Chennai floods, stated DMK leader Kanimozhi while lauding officials responses this time.“Additional measures enabled the rescue of thousands while restoring electricity to over 60% of homes.Nonetheless, the loss of lives and livelihoods continues to be accounted for after the cyclone barrelled through coastal belts at speeds of 85-95 kmph. Parts of Chennai continue grappling with inundation, uprooted trees and interrupted essential services.#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Water logging witnessed in Chennai owing to #CycloneMichuang (5.12)(Visuals from Arumbakkam, Jai Nagar area) pic.twitter.com/QTJtKStR5j— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2023What do experts predictTaking notes from the worsening weather conditions, the experts highlighted accurate predictions and early warning systems greatly assisting Tamil Nadus preemptive mobilisation limiting hazards from Cyclone Michaung compared to past disasters.However with climate volatility enhancing the severity of cyclones and flooding events, Indias preparedness and infrastructure lag behind risks...the storms blow to Chennai and southern Andhra coasts serves as another reminder, experts noted.For now, emergency and rescue teams continue rehabilitation efforts across Michaungs trail of destruction confining citizens indoors as NE monsoon rains persist posing renewed threats if arriving systems grow severe.
