Cyclone Mijam: Chennai braces for impact
A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified, turning into Cyclone Mijam. The Chennai Meteorological Department has reported that the cyclone is located 310 km from Chennai and is expected to move in a north-westerly direction. It is forecasted to strengthen further and make landfall between Nellore and Masulipatnam on the morning of the 5th. As a result, storm warning cage number 3 has been hoisted at several ports, including Chennai, Cuddalore, Ennore, Kattupally, and Puducherry.
In anticipation of the cyclone’s impact, schools and colleges in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, and Thiruvallur districts have been closed as a precautionary measure. Additionally, the Chennai Metro Rail Administration has announced the temporary closure of the Parangimalai Metro Station parking lot due to heavy rain.
Furthermore, Chennai’s iconic Marina Beach has been closed, and beachgoers are being evacuated following the storm warning. The public has been advised to stay away from the beach as a safety measure.
In light of the impending cyclone, emergency helpline numbers have been announced in Puducherry. The Chief Minister of Puducherry, Rangasamy, has assured that 24-hour toll-free numbers 1070 and 1077 will be available to provide assistance to those in need.
To mitigate the potential impact of Cyclone Mijam, large-scale preparations are underway. The Tamil Nadu Disaster Management Department is sending alert messages to residents through SMS, while the Department of Fire and Rescue Operations is on standby with a fleet of over 340 fire engines, 57 rubber boats, and 4,495 life jackets.
As the authorities brace for the cyclone’s impact, residents are advised to take necessary precautions and stay updated with the latest information from official sources.