Cyclone Fengal Expected to Hit Puducherry, Red Alert for Tamil Nadu – Cyclone Fengal is rapidly approaching Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, with landfall expected near Puducherry this afternoon, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD). On Saturday, November 30, 2024, the IMD predicted wind speeds of up to 90 kmph in the affected areas. In response, authorities have taken extensive measures to ensure public safety, including closing all schools and colleges in the region.
District Collector A. Kulothungan held a review meeting with key departments, including Public Works, local administration, and police, to assess preparedness. Citizens have been advised to remain indoors as strong winds and heavy rains begin to lash coastal areas.
The Deep Depression over Southwest Bay of Bengal moved north-northwestwards with a speed of 13 kmph during past 6 hours, intensified into a cyclonic storm “FENGAL” [pronounced as FEINJAL] and lay centred at 1430 hours IST of today, the 29th November 2024 over the same region near…
— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) November 29, 2024
Heavy Rainfall and Wind Forecasts
Dr. S. Balachandran, Director of the Chennai Meteorological Centre, confirmed that northern Tamil Nadu and its coastal districts are set to experience moderate to heavy rainfall. Certain areas might see very heavy rainfall, with one or two locations receiving extremely heavy rain. The government has issued a red alert for six districts, including Nagapattinam, predicting rainfall of up to 20 cm in some areas.
Chennai recorded 5.7 cm of rainfall by 7 AM today, with the city expected to receive up to 10 cm in the coming hours. Winds are expected to reach speeds of 70–80 kmph, peaking at 90 kmph.
Flight Disruptions and Public Advisories
Cyclone Fengal’s impact is also being felt in the aviation sector. Indigo Airlines has warned passengers about potential delays and cancellations for flights operating to and from Chennai, Tuticorin, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, and Salem. Travelers have been advised to monitor updates and check with airlines before planning their journeys.
The IMD has also issued a warning to fishermen, urging them not to venture into the sea due to dangerous weather conditions.
Relief Measures and Navy Preparedness
The Tamil Nadu government has deployed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams across delta districts to handle emergencies. Relief teams equipped with essential supplies like food, water, and medical kits are on standby. Vehicles carrying relief materials have been stationed in vulnerable areas to provide immediate support.
The Navy is fully geared to assist in rescue and relief efforts. Eastern Naval Command, in collaboration with Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Areas, has deployed special diving teams ready for emergency rescue missions. The Navy has also kept essential flood relief equipment and medicines ready for rapid deployment.
Government’s Preparedness and Public Appeal
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin and Puducherry Chief Minister N. Rangasamy have chaired meetings with officials to review the state’s preparedness. CM Stalin reassured citizens, stating that the government is fully prepared to tackle the cyclone’s impact. He has urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel.
Many coastal regions are already witnessing strong winds and intermittent rainfall. Authorities have set up control rooms to monitor the situation and respond swiftly to emergencies.
Keep following this space for more updates as Cyclone Fengal moves closer to the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts.