What started off as a gloomy day for Chennai is turning out to be nightmare. Tropical cyclone Vardah that originated in southern Thailand, has hit several parts of south India including Chennai and cyclone Vardah has been declared as a 'very severe cyclonic storm'. The metrological department has warned that the worst is yet to come.
Cyclone Vardah made a landfall near Pulicat (Thailand) and it has been reported that heavy to very heavy winds have lashed Chennai, Kanchipuram and Thiruvallur. Cyclonic Vardah, is expected to make a landfall between 2 pm to 5 pm and it is likely to cross completely by 6 pm on today. However, the metrological department has predicted heavy showers and squally winds in regions in and around Chennai for the next 12 hours.
The Chennai Corporation and the Tamil Nadu Government are however well-prepared to deal with the devastation caused by cyclone Vardah. People who are living in the low-lying areas have already been evacuated and there are about 176 relief centres created across Chennai to attend to peopke's need.
Life in the state capital has come to a standstill, most of tge offices and establishments remain shut. With runways closed, rail services suspended, buses and vehicles off the roads, Chennai will remain inaccessible for few more hours.
Trees continue to uproot, at many places vehicles have been damaged due to these uprooted trees and branches. Due to the squally winds which has touched 120 km/per hr power supply (electricity) has been snapped across Chennai.
The damage to property is yet to be ascertained as the worst is yet to come, shares a source. In the meantime one death has been reported in Nagapattinam district. It is believed that a fisherman who was returning after his catch lost his life. The coast of Andhra Pradesh is also put on high alert.
Currently, Chennai is experiencing the second phase of cyclone Vardah. Sources from the metrological department share that, Chennai will experience the final phase of this cyclone at around 5:30 pm. Chennai Corporation has issued a warning to the public asking them to stay indoors and those who are stranded on the roads are currently taking shelter in the relief centres.
Public who need assistance are requtested to contact 1070 or 1077 toll free numbers.