Tamil Nadu to face Cyclone Fengal: Schools Closed, Heavy Rainfall Predicted
Cyclone Fengal approaches Tamil Nadu, bringing heavy rains, strong winds, and disruptions. Schools and colleges shut in multiple districts, while authorities deploy disaster response teams to ensure safety. Stay updated on weather alerts and precautions.
kowshik Reddy
As Cyclone Fengal intensifies, Tamil Nadu braces for significant disruptions. The storm, forming over the southwest Bay of Bengal, has brought heavy rain and strong winds to the region, including the state capital, Chennai and tourist spot Puducherry. Authorities and citizens are on high alert as the weather system approaches.
Storm Development and Path
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that Cyclone Fengal, originating as a deep depression, has evolved into a cyclonic storm. Positioned approximately 550 kilometers southeast of Chennai, it is moving north-northwest at about 13 km/h. Forecasts suggest it will continue along this trajectory, skirting Sri Lanka and intensifying further. Tamil Nadu's coastal areas, including Nagapattinam and Puducherry, are likely to experience the brunt of its effects.
Rainfall and Weather Warnings
Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall has already impacted parts of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, Thanjavur, and Nagapattinam. The IMD has issued red alerts for central districts, including Mayiladuthurai, while a yellow alert is in place for Chennai. Thunderstorms, strong winds (45-65 km/h), and rough seas are expected over the coming days, raising concerns about flooding and disruptions to marine activities.
Schools and colleges in 11 districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Villupuram and Puducherry will be shut on November 29 and November 30. The government has urged parents and students to prioritize safety.
Flights to and from airports in Chennai, Madurai, and Tuticorin have been affected. Airlines such as IndiGo have issued advisories warning passengers of potential delays and cancellations.
Heavy rains have submerged standing crops in the Cauvery delta, affecting thousands of paddy fields. Farmers in districts such as Tiruvarur and Mayiladuthurai face significant losses
Preparedness Measures
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has led high-level meetings with district officials to coordinate disaster response. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has stationed 17 teams in vulnerable areas, including Chennai, Cuddalore, and Tiruvarur. Efforts include evacuation planning, monitoring water levels, and preemptive infrastructure repairs.
Citizen Advisory
Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, keep emergency supplies, including food, water, and medical kits. Monitor official weather updates and follow local government directives and avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding.
Cyclone Fengal is a reminder of the vulnerability of coastal regions during the monsoon season. By the morning of November 30, it will cross the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram. While the authorities have implemented robust measures to minimize damage, the storm underscores the importance of preparedness and rapid response mechanisms.
