Chennai - The relentless rainfall triggered by the approaching Cyclone Michaung has relentlessly battered Chennai, leaving the city in distress. According to weather bloggers, numerous areas within the city experienced a deluge surpassing the intensity witnessed during the significant floods of 2015.

Pradeep John, renowned as the Tamil Nadu weatherman on social media, drew parallels, stating, "In 2015, Nungambakkam got 294mm, Meenambakkam 345mm, Tambaram 494 mm, Chembarbakkam 475mm. Today Nungambakkam got 440mm in 36 hours, Meenambakkam 430 mm in 36 hours, and Chembarbakkam 320mm in 36 hours..." He went on to emphasize, "The city has got more rains than 2015, but let's wait for Chembarbakkam upstream data too. Rather than comparing with 2015, I would say this is the perfect storm..."

The consequences of the extreme weather were severe, with people stranded, roads submerged, trees uprooted, and vehicles floating in the water. The city grappled with power outages, and unfortunately, there were reports of fatalities.

At least seven individuals lost their lives, as confirmed by Chennai police. The victims included an unidentified man found near the Vaidyanathan flyover, an unidentified woman discovered at the Foreshore Estate bus depot, Padmanaban (50) from Dindigul district, Ganesan (70) who was electrocuted, and Manoharan (37) from Adyar, who tragically lost his life when a tree fell on him while riding a motorcycle. Two guest workers in Kanathur also lost their lives when a wall collapsed.

In response to the crisis, the government declared December 5 as a public holiday for Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu districts. Chennai airport, facing the brunt of the heavy rains, announced closure until 9 am on December 5. This marks a significant shutdown, the first since the 2015 floods.

The incessant rains also brought an unexpected visitor to the streets of Chennai—a mugger crocodile, captured in a viral video. Wildlife officials urged caution, assuring that these creatures are shy and elusive. The Madras High Court and subordinate courts declared a rain holiday on December 4, acknowledging the adverse weather conditions and the challenges faced by legal professionals.

As the impact of Cyclone Michaung continues, authorities remain on high alert, emphasizing safety measures and cautioning residents about potential risks.