Cyclone Fengal is intensifying in the Bay of Bengal and is expected to make landfall between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram on the morning of November 30. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal is set to become a cyclone in the coming hours, as it moves northwestward.
The storm is forecast to bring wind speeds of 50-60 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 70 kmph, along with heavy rainfall in northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and surrounding areas. Coastal regions are already experiencing adverse weather, including intermittent rainfall and reports of flooding.
In Puducherry, Chief Minister N. Rangasamy has activated disaster management teams and set up relief camps to evacuate residents from low-lying areas. The region has recorded 7.5 cm of rainfall over the last 24 hours, with Karaikal receiving 9.5 cm. A 24/7 control room has been established to coordinate emergency responses.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has issued advisories for fishing boats, urging them to return to harbor for safety. "Deep Depression in the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a cyclone and move towards Tamil Nadu," the ICG said on social media, reminding seafarers to take safety precautions.
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai has predicted "heavy to very heavy rain" in several districts, including Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Cuddalore. Isolated heavy rainfall is also expected in Chennai, Tiruvallur, and surrounding areas.
IndiGo Airlines has issued travel advisories, alerting passengers about possible flight disruptions at key airports such as Chennai, Tuticorin, and Madurai due to the adverse weather conditions.
In the Cauvery delta region, around 2,000 acres of paddy crops have been partially or completely submerged. Flooding has also affected salt pans in Nagapattinam and Villupuram. Rain-related incidents, including the collapse of structures and uprooted trees, have caused significant damage to local areas.
Cyclone Fengal is expected to weaken into a deep depression upon landfall, but it will still bring heavy rain and strong winds. Authorities are urging residents to stay alert and take necessary precautions as the storm approaches.
Read More: Cyclone Fengal Moving Towards Tamil Nadu: IMD Issues Flash Flood Warning Amid Heavy Rainfall