As Cyclone Fengal intensifies over the Bay of Bengal, residents in coastal areas of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are on high alert. The system, which began as a deep depression, is forecast to make landfall near Puducherry by the morning of November 30, 2024. Authorities have issued widespread warnings, including red alerts, and advised residents to prepare for heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and rough seas. Here’s everything you need to know about Cyclone Fengal’s progress, its impact, and the safety measures being taken.
Current Status of Cyclone Fengal
As of 5:30 AM IST on November 29, the cyclone was located at latitude 10.4°N, longitude 82.7°E, about 260 km northeast of Trincomalee, 310 km east of Nagapattinam, 360 km southeast of Puducherry, and 400 km southeast of Chennai. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that the storm is moving northwest at a speed of 7 km/h, with the expected landfall to occur along the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram by the morning of November 30.
The cyclone, currently a deep depression, is forecast to bring winds ranging from 55 to 65 km/h, with gusts up to 75 km/h. While the system is expected to weaken slightly before making landfall, it will still bring significant rainfall, especially to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
Weather Alerts and Warnings
The IMD has issued red alerts for several districts in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, where residents can expect heavy to very heavy rainfall. The areas under red alert include:
- Chengalpattu
- Villupuram
- Cuddalore
- Mayiladuthurai
- Tiruvarur
- Nagapattinam
- Puducherry
- Karaikal
In addition to the heavy rains, the cyclone is likely to bring high winds, which could cause power outages, uproot trees, and potentially damage homes and infrastructure. The IMD has also issued orange alerts for South Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema, where strong winds and heavy rainfall are expected.
Impact on Coastal Areas
The coastal regions, including Chennai, Kanchipuram, and Puducherry, are expected to experience rough sea conditions and high tides in the coming hours. Chennai's Marina Beach, in particular, has already seen rising tides, signaling the storm's growing strength.
As part of the precautionary measures, Puducherry Port has raised Storm Warning Signal No. 7, indicating the severity of the approaching storm. Fishermen have been strongly advised to stay ashore as the IMD has warned of rough sea conditions with waves as high as 4 to 5 meters.
Disruption to Daily Life: School and Flight Cancellations
In preparation for the storm, authorities have closed schools and colleges in multiple districts across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The Puducherry government has declared a two-day closure for all educational institutions, including private schools, on November 29 and 30. Similarly, schools and colleges in Kanchipuram and other affected areas will remain closed to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Travel disruptions are also expected, with IndiGo flights to and from Chennai, Tuticorin, Madurai, and Tiruchirappalli already impacted due to the adverse weather. Passengers are advised to check the status of their flights before traveling.
Agricultural Damage and Relief Efforts
The cyclone has already caused significant damage in agricultural areas. In Nagapattinam, over 800 acres of paddy crops have been submerged due to heavy rains, putting farmers in distress. Areas like Kamashwaram and Virundhamavadi have seen extensive flooding. Authorities are coordinating with the Indian Navy, which has activated its disaster response plan to provide relief teams, food, water, and medicines to the affected populations.
The Indian Navy’s focus on search and rescue operations, as well as its coordination with local authorities, is crucial as the cyclone continues to intensify.
Preparedness and Safety Measures
In light of the impending cyclone, authorities have issued several key safety advisories:
- Residents in coastal and low-lying areas should stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Fishermen have been instructed not to venture into the sea, and boats should be moved to safer, higher ground.
- Power outages are expected, so residents should stock up on essentials like flashlights, batteries, and water.
- Flood-prone areas are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions to avoid the risks of landslides and flooding.
Additionally, schools and government offices have been closed across the impacted districts to avoid risks to public safety.
The Role of Technology in Monitoring the Cyclone
ISRO has been actively tracking Cyclone Fengal using its satellites, including EOS-06 and INSAT-3DR. These satellites have provided real-time data on the cyclone’s movement, wind speeds, and potential areas of impact. This data is crucial in providing timely warnings and enabling authorities to respond effectively.
Conclusion: Stay Safe and Prepared
Cyclone Fengal is expected to continue intensifying as it moves toward the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts. With the predicted landfall on November 30, residents in the affected areas must remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines. By staying informed through weather updates, securing homes and property, and following government advisories, people can minimize the impact of the storm.
Stay tuned for more updates as Cyclone Fengal makes its way toward landfall, and make sure to follow the guidance of local authorities for the safety of yourself and your loved ones.
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