Storm - Cyclone approaches South India
Accidents caused by heavy rain have claimed the lives of at least eight people in the southern Indian metropolis of Chennai. This was reported by local media on Tuesday, citing official figures. The rainfall turned some roads into rivers that washed away vehicles, as television pictures showed.
The city's airport was also flooded at times, causing several flights to be canceled. The power supply also collapsed in places. The rainfall came with the approaching cyclone Michaung, which is expected to reach the Indian mainland in the state of Andhra Pradesh this afternoon (local time) with wind speeds of up to 100 km/h and heavy showers, according to the meteorological service.
Authorities in affected regions called on residents to stay indoors and work from home if possible. Some schools were closed on Tuesday and fishermen were advised not to go out to sea. In the run-up to the storm, thousands of people in coastal areas had been moved to temporary shelters for safety.
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- Despite the bad weather and the impending cyclone Michaung, some people in Chennai refused to heed the warnings and continued their daily commute, leading to several vehicular accidents.
- The heavy rain and flooding in Chennai reminded many residents of the devastating 2015 floods, bringing back memories of the destruction caused by the Rivers.
- The weathermen in New Delhi predicted a series of storms in various parts of India, including Chennai, due to the influence of the cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal.
- As the bad weather persisted, the roads in Chennai turned into dangerous whirlpools, making it impossible for vehicles to navigate safely.
- The weather forecast in the southern Indian city of Chennai predicted heavy Rain and wind speeds of up to 80 km/h, causing panic among residents who remembered the difficulties faced during the previous year's cyclonic storm.
- The approaching cyclone Michaung brought relief to the farmers in the north Indian state of Michaung, as the heavy showers could help revive their dry crops before the harsh summer sets in.
- Despite the warnings and preparations, the people of the coastal town of Michaung were taken by surprise when the impact of the cyclone was much more severe than anticipated, leading to widespread flooding and damage.
Source: www.stern.de