चक्रवाती तूफ़ान फेंगल आज टकराएगा तमिलनाडु के तट से, स्कूल कॉलेज बंद, हाई अलर्ट जारी- जानें बड़ी बातें

Sat Nov 30 01:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Phethai Threatens Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Coast

**Chennai, India –** Cyclone Phethai is expected to make landfall on the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts today, November 30th, bringing heavy rainfall and high waves. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of winds reaching 70 kmph.

The storm, which originated in the Bay of Bengal, is moving west-northwest. The IMD issued a report on Friday stating the cyclone’s center was located 310 km east of Nagapattinam and 360 km southeast of Puducherry and Chennai. According to BBC Tamil, the delay in the cyclone’s intensification was due to a shift in wind direction over Sri Lanka, potentially resulting in less rainfall than initially anticipated.

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are anticipated in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, and Tiruvallur districts, with moderate to heavy rain predicted for 11 districts in Tamil Nadu. Schools and colleges have been closed in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpattu as a precautionary measure. Other districts are advised to make their own decisions regarding school closures based on local conditions.

Coastal roads, including the East Coast Road, are likely to be affected. Authorities have temporarily closed roads in coastal areas, advised residents to stay indoors, and prohibited fishermen from venturing into the sea. The Tamil Nadu government has deployed nearly 800 boats and pumps for flood relief and rescue operations in eight districts, including Chennai. Parks and beaches in Chennai have been temporarily closed. IT employees have been instructed to work from home, and construction companies are being asked to secure equipment.

The IMD has issued red alerts for seven districts warning of rainfall up to 21 cm. Orange alerts are in place for other districts. The storm’s naming follows the World Meteorological Organization/ESCAP naming convention.

Authorities in Puducherry have deployed 300 police personnel along the beaches and are prepared with NDRF teams. The situation continues to develop and authorities urge residents to heed warnings and stay safe.