Digital News Guru Tamil Nadu Desk:
Cyclone Fengal: Current Updates and Impact
Cyclone Fengal, a severe cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal, is set to make landfall on the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts on, November 30, 2024. Authorities are on high alert, and extensive preparations have been made to mitigate its impact.
Weather and Forecast
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts the cyclone will cross between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram near Puducherry with wind speeds of 70–80 km/h, gusting to 90 km/h. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is expected in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and southern Andhra Pradesh.
- Coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, are bracing for significant rainfall and high winds. Inland areas may also see heavy precipitation.
Impact and Precautionary Measures
- Flight Disruptions: Over 20 flights have been canceled at Chennai Airport due to adverse weather conditions. Airlines have issued advisories about possible disruptions. As of November 30, the cyclone was about 40 kilometers away from the Tamil Nadu coast, with wind speeds reaching up to 90 km/h. The storm has disrupted daily life, causing widespread rainfall and posing challenges for both residents and travelers. In Chennai, the airport was temporarily closed, with flight operations suspended until 4:00 AM on December 1. Air travel disruptions extended to nearby cities like Hyderabad and Tirupati, with multiple flights canceled or rerouted due to adverse weather conditions.
- Schools and Offices: Schools across affected districts, including Chennai, have been closed as a precaution.
- Fishing Activities: Fishermen have been advised to stay ashore as the seas remain rough.
Disaster Preparedness
- Government Measures: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has reviewed emergency measures. Relief materials, including food, water, and medical supplies, have been stocked. Power outages are anticipated, and backup systems are being readied.
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): Teams have inspected vulnerable areas and are on standby for rescue and relief operations.
- Indian Navy: Ships equipped with humanitarian aid materials have been deployed. Naval diving teams are prepared for rescue missions
Fatalities and Previous Damage
Before reaching India, Cyclone Fengal caused destruction in Sri Lanka, leaving 12 dead and damaging infrastructure.
Key coastal areas, especially in the Cauvery Delta, have faced extensive damage. Over 2,000 acres of paddy fields in Tamil Nadu have been submerged, prompting concerns about agricultural losses. The flooding and continuous downpours have also hampered transport and caused significant disruptions in the region. The IMD has issued additional warnings for strong winds and dangerous sea conditions along the coast, advising fishermen to remain ashore.
Conclusion
As Cyclone Fengal approaches, residents in the affected regions are urged to follow government directives, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated on official advisories. The proactive measures by disaster management agencies aim to minimize the storm’s impact. The storm is expected to weaken over the next few days as it moves inland, but authorities have warned that the heavy rains will continue across the region, particularly in the coastal districts. As Cyclone Fengal continues its course, preparations for further relief efforts are underway to help the affected populations cope with the aftermath
Stay safe and informed as the situation unfolds.
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