Sat Nov 30 12:16:42 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Pummels Tamil Nadu and Puducherry; Red Alert Issued

**Chennai, November 30, 2023** – Cyclone Fengal made landfall near Puducherry this afternoon, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds gusting up to 90 kmph, and widespread disruption to Tamil Nadu and surrounding areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for several districts in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry, warning of extremely heavy rainfall and high tides.

Coastal districts bore the brunt of the storm’s impact, with the area between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram experiencing the most severe weather. Chennai, the state capital, experienced significant waterlogging and flooding in several areas, forcing the temporary closure of the airport from 12:30 pm to 7 pm. Authorities reported downed trees and initiated road clearing operations.

As a precautionary measure, schools and colleges were closed in Puducherry and numerous Tamil Nadu districts, including Kanchipuram. Fishermen were advised not to venture into the sea, and residents in low-lying areas were evacuated to relief camps. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin reviewed the state’s preparedness and confirmed that relief efforts were underway, with food and shelter provided to those affected. The government also urged IT companies to allow employees to work from home.

The IMD continuously monitored the cyclone using Doppler weather radars and satellite observations. While the storm’s movement slowed as it approached the coast, the IMD warned of continued heavy rainfall and strong winds into Sunday. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines. Flight operations to and from Chennai were severely disrupted.

Read More