In the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung causing heavy rainfall and flooding in Chennai, a mugger crocodile was sighted on a waterlogged road in the Perungalathur area. The video capturing this unusual event swiftly gained traction on social media, depicting the crocodile navigating the flooded street before vanishing into the nearby bushes.
The video was taken by a commuter while sitting in a car and it also shows that two men were slowing down their bike after seeing the reptile on the road.
Tamil Nadu Forest Secretary Supriya Sahu has appealed to residents to remain calm and assured them that the wildlife division is actively managing the situation to prevent any potential threats.
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Crocodile Sightings in Chennai: Caution Urged Amid Cyclone Michuang Aftermath
“Numerous tweets have surfaced regarding this video. Several mugger crocodiles inhabit the water bodies in Chennai. These creatures are typically shy and elusive, steering clear of human contact. The recent sighting is attributed to water overflow amid the heavy rains caused by Cyclone Michuang. It is strongly advised not to approach water bodies. These animals pose no threat to humans when left undisturbed and unprovoked. There is no cause for panic. The Wildlife division has been alerted and is diligently working to prevent any untoward incidents,” stated the message on X.
Chennai is witnessing huge disruptions to traffic flow, leading to the closure of several subways. Cyclone Michaung, which intensified into a severe cyclonic storm on Monday, December 4, has unleashed torrential rainfall in Chennai, causing widespread flooding, disrupting air travel.
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Flight Operations Disrupted: Chennai Airport Suspends Services Until 11 PM Amid Cyclone Impact
Extensive disruptions were witnessed in flight operations, encompassing both arrivals and departures, as heavy rains and robust winds prevailed. Chennai airport has taken the precautionary measure of suspending flight operations until 11 pm on Monday. The impending landfall of the storm in Andhra Pradesh is anticipated on December 5.
The severe cyclonic storm is expected to reach the West Central Bay of Bengal off south Andhra Pradesh and adjoining north Tamil Nadu coasts by Monday forenoon, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).
“It is likely to intensify gradually and move nearly northwards almost parallel and close to south Andhra Pradesh coast and cross South Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Machilipatnam, close to Bapatla during forenoon of December 5 as a ‘Severe Cyclonic Storm’ with a maximum sustained wind speed of 90-100 kmph gusting to 110 kmph,” the weather agency said.