Cyclone Michaung poses threat to Tamil Nadu coast: intensification expected today

Cyclone 'Michaung' in the Southwest and adjoining West central Bay of Bengal is gaining strength, moving northwestwards at a speed of 10 kmph. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates the cyclonic storm to escalate into a severe cyclonic storm by Monday.

Parts of Odisha have already witnessed light to moderate rainfall, prompting the IMD to issue alerts for five southern districts - Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, Gajapati, and Ganjam. A Yellow Warning for 7 cm to 11 cm of rainfall has been issued for Monday, with an orange warning signaling an expected increase in rain intensity on December 5 in these areas.

As of 5.30 am on Monday, Cyclone Michaung is positioned about 110 km east-northeast of Chennai. It is predicted to move north-northwestwards and make landfall between Nellore and Machilipatnam along the South Andhra Pradesh coast.

The IMD warns of a severe cyclonic storm with maximum sustained wind speeds of 90-100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph. Additional alerts include a yellow warning for heavy rain in several districts on December 6 and precautions for squally wind speeds along the Odisha coast.

Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing into the deep sea from December 4-6. Simultaneously, farmers in the region have begun harvesting their mature crops in compliance with state government advice.