Wed Nov 27 18:33:13 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Threatens Tamil Nadu: Red Alert Issued

**Chennai, India – November 27, 2024** – A deep depression in the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm, named Cyclone Fengal, by Wednesday, November 27th, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced. The storm is projected to move north-northwest towards the Tamil Nadu coast, skirting the Sri Lankan coast in the following two days.

The IMD has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on Wednesday. An orange alert is in effect for very heavy rains across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Yanam for the next three days.

Heavy rains have already begun impacting the Cauvery delta region of Tamil Nadu, causing significant damage to paddy crops. Farmers estimate that at least 2,000 acres of farmland have been affected by flooding in districts including Tiruvarur, Thiruthuraipoondi, Muthupettai, Mayiladuthurai, and Vedaranyam. Schools and colleges have been closed in several districts as a precaution.

The Indian Coast Guard is coordinating with state agencies to ensure the safety of seafarers, advising fishing boats to return to harbor. Sri Lanka has also experienced torrential rains, resulting in fatalities and search and rescue operations.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has declared holidays for educational institutions in several districts of Tamil Nadu due to the anticipated heavy rainfall. The Tamil Nadu government is also taking steps to provide relief to affected farmers. The situation remains dynamic, and residents are advised to monitor weather updates closely.

Read More