Cyclone Michaung, a severe cyclonic storm, has commenced its landfall near Bapatla on the Andhra Pradesh coast, after wreaking havoc in Tamil Nadu, causing heavy rain, floods, and claiming at least eight lives. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a maximum sustained wind speed of 90 to 100 km/h, gusting up to 110 km/h as the cyclone crosses the Andhra Pradesh coast.
The landfall process is currently underway, with the eye of the cyclone situated near Bapatla on the south Andhra Pradesh coast. The Amaravati Meteorological Centre reports that the intensity of gales near the center of the severe cyclonic storm is between 90-100 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 110 km/h.
As a precautionary measure, authorities have evacuated 9,454 people from seven districts—Konaseema, Kakinada, Krishna, Bapatla, Prakasam, Nellore, and Tirupati—to 211 relief camps. These relief efforts include the distribution of 10,251 food packets and 18,068 water packets. The evacuation process was particularly focused on vulnerable areas, with special attention given to those residing in thatched houses.
Residents in the Bapatla district have been advised against going outdoors, and people in low-lying areas have been evacuated. Bapatla district police have equipped every police station with essential rescue equipment, including JCB excavators, cutter machines, ropes, and expert swimmers. Emergency helplines (100, 112, and 8333813228) have been established for those in need of assistance.
Authorities have taken preemptive measures to ensure the safety of the affected regions, with district collectors and police officials actively coordinating with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams. The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by gales in parts of Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday and Wednesday. Additionally, extremely heavy rainfall is anticipated in isolated places, posing an increased risk of flooding and other weather-related incidents.
In response to the impending cyclone, the Meteorological Department has issued specific warnings for various districts. Extremely heavy rainfall exceeding 204.4 mm is expected in isolated places of Konaseema, West Godavari, Eluru, Krishna, NTR, Palnadu, Bapatla, and Prakasam districts. Heavy to very heavy rainfall ranging from 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm is forecast for parts of these districts. Similar warnings extend to other areas, indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall in specified districts.
The situation remains dynamic, and the authorities continue to closely monitor the cyclone’s impact on the affected regions. The coordination of relief efforts, evacuation protocols, and timely communication through helplines are crucial aspects of managing the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung. As the cyclone progresses, communities and authorities are on high alert, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines.
