Sat Nov 30 15:36:34 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Makes Landfall Near Puducherry, Bringing Heavy Rains and Disruptions to Tamil Nadu

**Chennai, Tamil Nadu –** Cyclonic storm Fengal made landfall near Puducherry on Saturday afternoon, November 30th, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread disruption to Tamil Nadu and neighboring regions. The storm, which packed wind speeds up to 90 kmph, caused significant impact along the coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued red alerts for several districts in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry, warning of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and high tides. Coastal districts bore the brunt of the storm’s impact, with wind speeds reaching 50-60 kmph, gusting to 70 kmph earlier in the day, before intensifying at landfall. The IMD reported that the landfall process, which began in the afternoon, lasted approximately four hours.

The severe weather led to significant disruptions. Chennai airport suspended all operations until 7 PM due to heavy rainfall and strong winds, resulting in the cancellation of 55 flights and the diversion of 19 others. Schools and colleges remained closed across Puducherry and several Tamil Nadu districts, including Kanchipuram. Fishermen were advised not to venture into the sea.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin reviewed the state’s preparedness and confirmed that relief camps had been set up and food distributed to vulnerable communities. The government also implemented measures to address waterlogging and clear debris from roads. Public transport services were severely impacted, with many residents taking precautions to avoid flooding.

While the storm’s intensity is expected to gradually decrease, the IMD continues to monitor the situation closely and advises residents to remain vigilant. The impact of Cyclone Fengal is expected to linger in the coming days, with further rainfall predicted in several areas.

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