Sat Nov 30 08:31:09 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Bears Down on Tamil Nadu, Red Alert Issued

**Chennai, India – November 30, 2024** – Cyclone Fengal is expected to make landfall on the Tamil Nadu coast this evening, prompting a red alert across several southern Indian states. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.

As of late Friday night, Fengal was located approximately 360 km north of Trincomalee (Sri Lanka) and moving west-northwest at 7 km/h. The IMD predicts the cyclone will cross the coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, near Puducherry, as a cyclonic storm with wind speeds reaching 70-80 km/h, gusting to 90 km/h.

The IMD’s Head of Cyclonic Division, Ananda Das, stated that coastal districts of North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh will experience the brunt of the heavy rainfall, with the interior areas of Tamil Nadu also affected on November 30th. Red alerts are in place for Tamil Nadu, South Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and interior Karnataka.

Precautionary measures are underway. The Chennai airport has extended its closure until 7 PM, diverting several flights to Bengaluru. Coastal communities, including those from the Irula community, are being evacuated to relief camps. Train services in Chennai are operating at reduced frequency. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has reviewed the state government’s preparedness. The Puducherry administration sent SMS alerts to approximately 12 lakh residents. Schools and colleges across affected districts are closed. Fishermen have been advised to remain ashore. Reports indicate flooding in some areas, high tides lashing the coast, and rough seas. Despite the adverse weather, devotees continued to visit the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. The state government reported that 471 people from 164 families have been sheltered in relief camps.

The situation remains dynamic, with the IMD continuing to monitor Fengal’s progress and issue updates. Residents in affected areas are urged to heed all official warnings and remain vigilant.

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