Cyclone Michaung Triggers Heavy Rainfall, Causes Road Collapse in Chennai’s Poes Garden

A road in Chennai’s upscale Poes Garden area collapsed as Cyclone Michaung brought strong winds and heavy rains to the city. The road was left with a large cavity in the middle, and an electric pole collapsed into it. Makeshift structures were seen at the edge of the cavity. Poes Garden is a prestigious neighborhood where former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalitha lived.

The torrential downpour has caused waterlogging and power outages in many parts of the city, disrupting daily life. Many residents have been forced to evacuate their homes and seek shelter in hotels. To ensure public safety, authorities have declared a public holiday for today and tomorrow, closing schools and colleges. Rescue teams have been deployed to prevent any untoward incidents.

In anticipation of the cyclonic storm, locals rushed to stock up on essential supplies, leading to high demand for drinking water in shops. The Chennai airport has suspended operations until 9 am tomorrow due to flooding, resulting in the cancellation of around 70 flights. The Southern Railway has also reported the suspension of several trains originating from Chennai Central and heading to Coimbatore and Mysuru. Passengers affected by the cancellations will receive full refunds. Additionally, 14 subways in the city have been closed.

The cyclonic storm Michaung is currently near Chennai and Puducherry, bringing heavy showers and strong winds. The weather office has forecasted more heavy rains for Chennai tonight. The situation is expected to take time to recover even after the rain stops.

[With input from news agency PTI]