Cyclone Arnab batters coasts with heavy rains, flooding, uprooted trees

Cyclone Arnab intensified its impact on coastal regions of South India as it progressed through its landfall phase, leaving a trail of destruction across multiple districts. Konaseema district in Andhra Pradesh bore the brunt of the severe weather system, with numerous trees uprooted and vegetation stripped bare, hampering movement and creating hazardous conditions for residents.

In Tamil Nadu, the coastal city of Chennai witnessed alarming sea surge as giant waves breached protective barriers and inundated roads and residential localities in the Ennore area. The phenomenon, triggered by the cyclone's passage and intensified by high tidal conditions, posed immediate risks to communities near the shoreline.

Waterlogging emerged as a significant concern across low-lying areas as torrential rains continued unabated throughout the cyclone's passage. Storm drains and natural water bodies overflowed, submerging streets and disrupting vehicular and pedestrian movement in urban and semi-urban zones.

The cyclone's powerful winds compounded the challenges, uprooting trees and damaging power lines, leaving several areas without electricity. Authorities remained on high alert with rescue and relief operations underway in the most severely affected zones. The weather system was expected to gradually weaken as it moved inland, though heavy to very heavy rainfall warnings remained in effect for several districts.