Cyclone Michaung, currently brewing over the Bay of Bengal, has taken an unexpected turn, intensifying into a severe cyclonic storm and posing a serious threat to Andhra Pradesh. While the cyclone is expected to land near Bapatla, its unusual December presence and rapid strengthening raise concerns for the region.
Latest Cyclone Michaung Position (as of December 5th, 12:00 PM)
Location: 15.2°N, 80.25°E
Movement: 12 kmph north-northeast
Distance from key locations:
40 km northeast of Kavali
80 km north-northeast of Nellore
80 km south-southwest of Bapatla
140 km south-southwest of Machilipatnam
Unprecedented December Threat: Why Cyclone Michaung is Different
Cyclones in December are rare in the Bay of Bengal due to unfavorable ocean conditions. However, Michaung defies the odds, packing strong winds and heavy rainfall. Initially predicted as a “tropical cyclone,” the storm’s rapid intensification to a “severe” category just before landfall is highly unusual for this time of year.
Cause of the Anomaly: Warm Waters Fuel Michaung’s Power
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes Michaung’s unexpected strength to abnormally warm waters of the southern Andhra Pradesh coast. This warm “heat index” provided the perfect environment for the cyclone to thrive, leading to its rapid escalation.
Authorities are on high alert, with evacuation advisories issued for coastal areas. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds.
