Sat Nov 30 12:16:44 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Bears Down on Tamil Nadu; Red Alert Issued

**Chennai, India – November 30, 2023** – 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) reports that the cyclone, currently located about 230 km east-northeast of Nagapattinam, is moving west-northwestward at 7 km/h. Landfall is predicted between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, near Puducherry, with wind speeds reaching 70-80 km/h, gusting to 90 km/h.

The IMD’s Head of Cyclonic Division, Ananda Das, warned of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, South Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and interior Karnataka. Coastal districts of North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh are expected to be hardest hit, with heavy rainfall predicted for inland Tamil Nadu on November 30th. Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh are currently under yellow alert.

Preparations are underway across the affected regions. Authorities have erected barricades at Tamil Nadu’s Tharangambadi Beach, while Chennai Airport temporarily suspended operations until 7 pm due to the severe weather. Several flights have been diverted or cancelled. In various districts, including Viluppuram and Chengalpattu, heavy rain and strong winds are already being reported. Relief camps have been set up, and residents in vulnerable coastal areas are being evacuated. Schools and colleges are closed in several districts. The Puducherry administration sent SMS alerts to over 12 lakh residents urging vigilance. Fishermen have been advised to remain ashore and secure their boats. The state government is taking several measures to assist people in the affected areas. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is reported to have reviewed the state’s preparedness. Images show flooded areas, waterlogged streets, uprooted trees, and long queues at the airport. The IMD continues to monitor the cyclone’s progress and provide updates.

Read More