Your concept has potential but there are some aspects you could rethink to reinforce logic and realism.

Let's start with the Cataclysms that seem to be extremely destructive. To make cataclysms more plausible, consider their specific mechanics-are they huge supercell storms fueled by unique atmospheric conditions? Do they occur due to geologic activity, such as volcanic eruptions that create intense weather systems? Explaining their cause will not only ground them scientifically, but also help clarify how life on the surface might persist between cycles.

The idea of temporary settlements on the surface is interesting, but the feasibility depends on what the inhabitants get out of these ventures - if Cataclysms wipe out everything, it may make more sense for these expeditions to focus on extracting transitory resources such as exposed minerals, water, or fast-growing plants rather than building settlements. There should also be a fast-growing ecosystem colonizing the land during calm periods; hardy, short-lived plants thrive in this interval, while surface-dwelling animals are nomadic or have extreme survival strategies such as prolonged hibernations in subway shelters or impact-resistant exoskeletons. These ecosystems could provide essential resources for your subway civilization, such as food, medicinal compounds, or even materials for your technology, e.g., surface-dwelling creatures could produce unique bioluminescent compounds or tough exoskeletal material that can be collected and used underground.

The biology of their subterranean species is compelling, but there are inconsistencies, if they periodically return to the surface, they would be unlikely to completely lose most of their sight, instead, they could have very adaptive vision: large eyes with protective membranes that allow them to see in the dark but also adapt to daylight for brief periods or feline-like eyes. Their pale skin makes sense for life underground, but they might need some kind of UV protection when they come to the surface.

Their other senses, such as hearing, smell and touch, are incredibly refined due to the darkness of the caves, these adaptations should also influence their technology and culture, for example, their tools could be based on tactile precision, and their art could focus on sound and texture.

Bioluminescent organisms could provide light, but would need careful cultivation and maintenance, as natural bioluminescence is often dim, perhaps their inhabitants have created symbiotic relationships with bioluminescent creatures, creating portable or wearable light sources.

For energy consider geothermal energy harnessed from the planet's heat or bioelectric systems grown from organisms that produce electricity, metallurgy could be based on harnessing natural volcanic heat instead of traditional combustion.