Tamil Nadu Cyclone Alert: A deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal is expected to strengthen into a cyclonic storm by Wednesday, November 27, and is predicted to bring heavy to extremely heavy rainfall to Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD). tamil nadu heavy rainfall
Key Updates on Cyclone Fengal:
- Current Position:
- Located approximately 670 km off the coast of Chennai and 190 km southeast of Trincomalee, the depression is moving toward the Tamil Nadu coast.
- Intensification Expected:
- The system is expected to intensify into Cyclone Fengal by November 27, 2024.
- It will continue moving north-northwestwards and is predicted to skirt the Sri Lanka coast over the next few days.
- Rainfall and Wind Alerts:
- Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected in the affected states, especially along the eastern coast.
- Wind speeds between 45-55 km/h with gusts up to 65 km/h are anticipated, potentially leading to rough seas, flooding in low-lying areas, and disruptions in marine activities.
- Location Details:
- The depression is situated 580 km south-southeast of Puducherry and 670 km south-southeast of Chennai.
School and College Closures:
Due to the heavy rain warning, a holiday has been declared for schools and colleges in Tamil Nadu districts including Trichy, Ramanathapuram, Nagapattinam, Cuddalore, Villupuram, and Thiruvallur.
Government Preparedness and Response:
- Tamil Nadu Government:
- Chief Minister MK Stalin has convened an urgent review meeting with the District Magistrates of affected areas like Mayiladuthurai, Villupuram, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Cuddalore to ensure swift action and safety measures.
- NDRF Deployment: Two teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been dispatched to Tamil Nadu, bringing the total number of teams to 17, which will be stationed in vulnerable districts.
- Public Safety Measures:
- Residents are urged to remain cautious and avoid venturing out during heavy rains. The government has assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure safety.
Weather Impact in Tamil Nadu:
- Moderate to heavy rain has already started lashing areas like Chennai, Chengelpet, Kanchipuram, Cuddalore, and Nagapattinam.
- Cauvery delta regions, including Nagapattinam, are experiencing rainfall, with more expected as the storm approaches.
What to Expect in the Coming Days:
- Cyclone Fengal is expected to bring heavy rains, winds, and rough seas. Areas along the coast are likely to face flooding, with low-lying areas being particularly vulnerable.
- Coastal districts should stay alert for possible disruptions in local transport and marine activities due to rough seas.
Safety Precautions:
- Avoid coastal areas and flood-prone zones.
- Stay updated on the weather through reliable sources like IMD and local authorities.
- Follow evacuation orders if necessary.