INDIA, Dec 5: Cyclone Michaung made landfall on India's east coast, resulting in at least 17 confirmed deaths, according to authorities in the major city of Chennai. The cyclone, labeled a severe cyclonic storm, prompted the evacuation of thousands from coastal areas in the preceding days to minimize casualties. Michaung struck between Nellore and Kavali in the south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh with sustained winds of 55-60 miles per hour and stronger gusts, causing heavy rainfall and high winds. More than 9,500 people were evacuated in Andhra Pradesh, with relief camps set up in safer zones.

The cyclone wreaked havoc in Tamil Nadu before landfall, submerging Chennai and causing chaos. The initial eight deaths were reported in Chennai due to rain-related incidents, including electrocution and falling trees. The heavy rains paralyzed the city, flooding streets and the airport, which resumed operations after clearing the waterlogged runway. Rescue operations by India's National Disaster Response Force were conducted in flooded areas along the coast, with Andhra Pradesh placing all eight coastal districts on high alert.

The Bay of Bengal, known for its warm waters, has been a breeding ground for deadly cyclones. Cyclone Amphan in 2020 claimed at least 80 lives and displaced thousands, while Cyclone Fani in 2019 killed at least 89 people in Odisha. The region witnessed a devastating supercyclone in 1999 that took around 10,000 lives in Odisha. Scientists attribute the increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones in the Bay of Bengal to global warming.