Sat Nov 30 14:22:26 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal: Red Alert Issued as Storm Approaches Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

**Chennai, India – November 30, 2023** – Cyclone Fengal is intensifying and is expected to make landfall near Puducherry by Saturday evening, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert for heavy rainfall across parts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

The storm, currently over the Bay of Bengal, is predicted to bring winds of up to 90 kilometers per hour at landfall. Heavy rainfall, high waves, and strong winds are anticipated, leading to disruptions across the region.

Authorities in Puducherry have preemptively closed schools and colleges and suspended public services. Evacuation efforts are underway in low-lying areas. Chennai airport suspended flight operations from 12:30 PM to 7:00 PM on Saturday due to the severe weather. Suburban train services between Chennai Beach and Velachery have also been suspended. Madras University has postponed its distance mode exams scheduled for Sunday to December 15th.

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udayanidhi Stalin has provided live updates on the situation, thanking volunteers for their efforts on the ground. The IMD’s Director-General, Mrityunjay Mohapatra, warned of potential landslides and damage to infrastructure due to strong winds.

The IMD has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in several districts including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore districts and Puducherry. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is also forecast for other areas. The IMD has advised fishermen to remain ashore and take precautions to secure their boats and equipment. Indigo Airlines temporarily suspended all flight operations to and from Chennai Airport due to the adverse weather conditions. The airport stated that flights will resume once weather conditions improve.

The impact of the cyclone is already being felt, with heavy rain lashing parts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors and remain vigilant. The situation remains dynamic, and further updates are expected.

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