05 Dec 2023 | 02:21 AM UTC
India: Tropical Cyclone Michaung tracking northwestward over Andhra Pradesh State early Dec. 5 /update 3
TC Michaung tracking northwestward over Andhra Pradesh State, India early Dec. 5 following landfall earlier in the day. Fatalities reported.
Tropical Cyclone Michaung is tracking northwestward over Andhra Pradesh State, India, early Dec. 5, following landfall over Nellore District earlier in the day. As of 02:30 IST, the storm's center of circulation was approximately 137 km (85 miles) north of Chennai, Tamil Nadu State.
Forecast models indicate that the system will weaken rapidly into a deep depression as it tracks northward over central Andhra Pradesh through Dec. 5 before dissipating over eastern Telangana State Dec. 6. The storm's track and intensity forecast remain somewhat uncertain, and changes may occur over the coming hours and days.
The India Meteorological Department has issued red heavy rain and strong surface wind warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across coastal Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and orange heavy rain and strong surface wind warnings across Odisha State Dec. 5. Yellow heavy rain, strong wind, thunderstorm, and lightning warnings are in place across other parts of eastern India Dec. 6. Officials will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as the storm progresses.
Disruptions are ongoing across parts of eastern India as of early Dec. 5. Authorities have reported six weather-related fatalities in Chennai amid heavy flooding in parts of the city. Officials have evacuated thousands of people from low-lying areas in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Both states have declared a public holiday, and schools, colleges, and offices are closed in several districts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh through at least Dec. 5. Authorities have established nearly 5,000 relief centers in affected coastal areas. Due to the severe weather, Chennai International Airport (MAA) has suspended all arrivals and departures through at least 09:00 Dec. 5. Tirupati Airport (TIR) also canceled all flights Dec. 4; further flight disruptions are likely throughout parts of eastern India over the coming hours and days. Chennai and surrounding areas are experiencing notable disruptions to train services, and several subway and metro stations and roads are closed. Power outages are also affecting parts of Chennai.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and those with easily overwhelmed drainage systems. Localized evacuations, flash flooding, and landslides are possible.
The inclement weather could trigger localized business, transport, and utility disruptions, rendering some bridges or roadways impassable. Flight disruptions at regional airports and temporary closures of ports are also possible. Stagnant pools of water during and after flooding increase insect- and waterborne diseases, such as dengue fever, cholera, and malaria. Raw sewage and other hazardous materials mixed with floodwaters pose a serious health threat.
Activate contingency plans in areas where officials forecast adverse weather conditions. Heed any evacuation orders that may be issued. Use extreme caution in low-lying coastal areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for severe flooding and storm surges. Stockpile water, batteries, and other essentials in advance. Charge battery-powered devices when electricity is available; restrict the use of cellular phones to emergencies only. Power down mobile devices when not in use. Keep important documents and necessary medications in waterproof containers. Take precautions against insect- and waterborne diseases in the coming weeks.
Plan accordingly for protracted commercial, transport, and logistics disruptions in areas in the path of the storm, especially if vital infrastructure is damaged. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.
