As Cyclone Fengal quickly approaches the Tamil Nadu coast, authorities are putting precautionary measures in place to safeguard public safety. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several coastal districts, warning residents about heavy rainfall, high winds, and rough sea conditions. In response, local governments have announced the closure of schools and colleges in several districts, while fishermen are being urged to move their boats to safer locations ahead of the storm’s anticipated landfall.
Schools and Colleges Closed in Tamil Nadu’s Affected Districts
As Cyclone Fengal intensifies, educational institutions in Chennai, Chengalpet, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur districts will remain closed on Saturday, November 30, 2024. The decision comes after the IMD issued a heavy rainfall warning for these regions, with forecasts indicating that the storm will bring strong winds and significant downpours.
District authorities have taken these precautionary measures to ensure the safety of students and staff, given the severity of the weather conditions expected. With winds of up to 90 km/h and heavy rains expected to make their way inland, the closure of schools and colleges is a necessary step to avoid any incidents related to the storm.
Local government officials have stressed the importance of staying indoors and avoiding travel during the peak hours of the storm, which are expected to coincide with the storm’s landfall.
Cyclone Fengal’s Path and Forecasted Impact
Cyclone Fengal, which formed over the Bay of Bengal, is forecast to make landfall near the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast between Karaikal and Mamallapuram, close to Puducherry, on Saturday afternoon. Dr. S Balachandran, Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai, provided further insight:
“The crossing point is between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram near Puducherry. The impact will be more along the coastal districts, with wind and heavy rainfall being the major concerns,” he said.
The storm’s current location is about 300-350 km east-northeast of the Tamil Nadu coastline, and it is expected to intensify further before reaching the land. Wind speeds are projected to peak between 70-80 km/h, with gusts reaching as high as 90 km/h. These strong winds, combined with heavy rainfall, are expected to affect coastal areas, including Chennai, Chengalpet, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur, as well as parts of Puducherry.
Fishermen Advised to Take Immediate Action
In addition to school closures, the Fisheries Department of Puducherry has issued an urgent advisory for all fishermen. Authorities have urged fishermen to relocate their boats and equipment to higher ground immediately. With rough seas and high winds expected, leaving boats on the shore could result in significant damage.
The department also warned of hazardous sea conditions, with waves expected to rise to dangerous levels along the coastline. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea until the storm subsides, and to monitor local weather updates closely for any further advisories.
Fishermen in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are taking the warnings seriously, moving their vessels to safer areas and securing their equipment ahead of the storm’s landfall.
What Residents Should Expect
As Cyclone Fengal progresses, residents in the affected districts should prepare for possible disruptions, including power outages, localized flooding, and transportation delays. Heavy rainfall, with totals reaching up to 20 cm in some areas, is expected to continue throughout the day on Saturday, and high winds could cause tree falls, damage to property, and create dangerous driving conditions.
Local authorities have issued the following guidelines to help residents stay safe during the storm:
- Stay indoors: Avoid going outside during heavy rainfall and strong winds.
- Secure property: If possible, secure outdoor furniture and any loose items that could become projectiles in high winds.
- Monitor weather updates: Stay informed through local news and official weather updates to track the cyclone’s path.
- Avoid coastal areas: With high waves expected, residents living near the coast should stay away from the shoreline until the storm passes.
What’s Next for Cyclone Fengal?
The storm’s current trajectory suggests that it will continue its path towards Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, causing widespread disruptions along the coast before weakening as it moves inland. Authorities are keeping a close eye on its movement, and further updates will be issued as necessary.
In the aftermath of the cyclone, emergency response teams will be on standby to assist with relief efforts, including clearing debris, restoring power, and helping displaced residents. The government has already mobilized resources in anticipation of the storm’s impact.
Key Details to Know About Cyclone Fengal
| Cyclone Name | Fengal |
|---|---|
| Location | 300-350 km east-northeast of Tamil Nadu |
| Expected Landfall | Saturday afternoon, between Karaikal and Mamallapuram |
| Wind Speed | 70-80 km/h, gusting to 90 km/h |
| Rainfall Forecast | Heavy rainfall expected (up to 20 cm in some areas) |
| School Closures | Chennai, Chengalpet, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur |
| Fishermen Advisory | Relocate boats, avoid sea activity |
| Expected Impact | High winds, rainfall, and rough seas |
Conclusion: Stay Safe as Cyclone Fengal Approaches
As Cyclone Fengal nears landfall, authorities are urging residents to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their property. Schools and colleges have been closed in several districts to ensure the safety of students and staff, while fishermen have been warned to take immediate action to safeguard their boats and equipment.
With the cyclone expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and rough sea conditions to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, it is crucial that everyone follows safety guidelines and stays informed about the storm’s progress. Be sure to check official weather updates and stay indoors during the worst of the weather.