Cyclone ‘Maichong’ threatens coastal regions, triggers train cancellations in Jharkhand

Ranchi: The intensification of the pressure area in the Bay of Bengal into a potential cyclone named ‘Maichong’ has raised concerns for coastal areas between Nellore and Machilipatnam, set to hit the Andhra Pradesh coast on Monday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates adverse weather conditions, prompting the cancellation of several trains in the Ranchi Railway Division.

Jharkhand, particularly in the eastern and western Singhbhum regions, may witness the impact of Cyclone ‘Maichong’ starting from December 5, warns the local Meteorological Center. Although no official warning has been issued, preparations are underway to mitigate potential effects.

The meteorological forecast predicts a cloudy sky on December 4, with isolated rain in the southern and central parts of the state. The influence of the cyclone is expected to persist until December 7. While no specific warnings are issued, the maximum impact is anticipated in the eastern and western Singhbhum areas.

As the region experiences above-normal temperatures due to low pressure in the Bay of Bengal, the Meteorological Center highlights the potential relief from the harsh cold usually felt in early December. The impact of the cyclone is expected to bring rainfall from December 5 to 7.
Railway services are already affected, with cancellations including the Hatia-Bengaluru Express (18637), Barauni-Coimbatore Express weekly special train Vayaranchi (03357), and Coimbatore-Barauni Express weekly special train via Ranchi (03358). Passengers faced challenges at Hatia station due to the lack of timely information about train cancellations, prompting railways to assure that passengers will be promptly informed via SMS as soon as information is received from the headquarters.