A deep depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal is expected to turn into a cyclonic storm within 12 hours. This system is currently located about 100 km east-northeast of Trincomalee. As Cyclone Fengal strengthens, it poses a significant threat to coastal areas of Tamil Nadu. The Indian Navy has activated its disaster response plan to reduce potential damage.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall. Areas affected include Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, and Puducherry. There is a yellow alert for additional districts including Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Nagapattinam. These regions are likely to experience substantial rainfall which may lead to flooding and disruptions.
The Indian Coast Guard advises fishing boats in the region to return to harbor. They have deployed resources to monitor the storm and help ensure safety for maritime activities.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the depression was around 310 km southeast of Trincomalee. It is forecast to move north-northwest and could strengthen into a cyclonic storm by November 27. Following that, it is expected to approach the Tamil Nadu coast while bypassing Sri Lanka.
In the Cauvery delta region of Tamil Nadu, heavy rains damaged standing paddy crops overnight. The India Meteorological Department has warned of extremely heavy rainfall in Cuddalore and Mayiladuthurai. Some crops in Tiruvarur, Muthupettai, and other areas are now submerged. Farmers estimate that about 2,000 acres of crops have been affected.
Due to the flooding, local governments declared a holiday for schools and colleges in Tiruvarur, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai for November 27. Schools in Chennai and nearby areas are also closed to protect students from severe weather.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as Cyclone Fengal intensifies. The next 48 hours are crucial in assessing the storm’s impact on Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Emergency services remain on high alert to ensure the safety of lives and property.
