As Cyclone ‘Michaung’ gains momentum in the Bay of Bengal, precautionary measures are being implemented, with the closure of all schools in Puducherry, Karaikal, and Yanam regions on December 4, 2023. The cyclone, expected to intensify into a deep depression and later into a cyclonic storm, has prompted authorities to review preparedness and mobilize resources for potential impacts on coastal areas.
National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) Review:
The National Crisis Management Committee, headed by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, convened to review the preparedness of state governments and central ministries for Cyclone ‘Michaung.’ The meeting underscored the importance of safety measures, particularly for fishermen, who have been advised against venturing into the sea. Adequate shelters, power supply, medicine, and emergency services are on standby to address potential challenges posed by the cyclone, according to an official statement.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Deployment:
To bolster response efforts, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 18 teams to Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Puducherry. Additionally, 10 additional teams are on standby, ready to provide rescue and relief operations. The Coast Guard, Army, and Navy have activated their teams, including ships and aircraft, to respond swiftly to any emergency situations.
Cyclone ‘Michaung’ Status and Projected Path:
The Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) briefed the NCMC on the current status of Cyclone ‘Michaung.’ As of the latest update, the depression over the Southeast and adjoining Southwest Bay of Bengal has moved west-northwestwards. Positioned about 730 km east-southeast of Puducherry, the cyclone is expected to intensify into a deep depression by December 2 and further into a cyclonic storm over the Southwest Bay of Bengal around December 3.
The projected path indicates a northwestward movement, reaching near south Andhra Pradesh and adjoining north Tamil Nadu coasts by December 4 forenoon. Subsequently, the cyclone is anticipated to move nearly northwards, parallel to the south Andhra Pradesh coast, crossing South Andhra Pradesh during the forenoon of December 5.
Rainfall Alerts and Precautions:
The IMD has issued rainfall alerts, predicting thunderstorms with rains in Pondicherry on Saturday, December 2, and heavy rainfall on December 3 and 4. Coastal districts, including Delta districts, are expected to witness heavy rainfall on December 1 and 2, with a particular focus on Thiruvallur to Mayiladuthurai north coastal districts on December 3. Residents in these areas are advised to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines during cyclonic conditions.
As Cyclone ‘Michaung’ approaches, authorities are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of residents in vulnerable regions. The closure of schools, deployment of rescue teams, and adherence to weather alerts underline the collective efforts to mitigate potential impacts and safeguard communities in the path of the cyclone.
