Sat Nov 30 13:06:25 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Batters Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Coasts

**Chennai, November 30, 2024** – Cyclone Fengal made landfall near Puducherry on Saturday evening, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and widespread disruption to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The storm, which intensified as it moved west-northwestward, caused significant flooding in Chennai and surrounding areas.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for several districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Villuppuram, Kallakurichi, and Cuddalore, as well as Puducherry. Chennai airport suspended operations for several hours, resulting in over 100 flight cancellations and 19 diversions. Public transport services were severely affected, with many bus routes disrupted and the Chennai MRTS system completely shut down.

Heavy rainfall led to significant waterlogging in low-lying areas, forcing evacuations and prompting authorities to move fishing boats to safer locations. Reservoirs, such as Chembarambakkam, overflowed. The Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority (TNSDMA) activated its helpline numbers (1070, 1077, and WhatsApp number 9445869848) to provide assistance.

The impact extended beyond Tamil Nadu. Andhra Pradesh also experienced heavy rainfall, with a red alert issued for several districts. Hyderabad airport reported flight cancellations and diversions. Telangana, meanwhile, experienced a surprising temperature rise attributed to the cyclone’s effects.

The Tamil Nadu Electricity Minister announced an extension on electricity bill payments for affected customers, while the Chief Minister reviewed the situation and relief measures. Similar preparations and warnings were issued by officials in Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry.

Despite the disruption, officials reported that the situation was under control, with relief measures underway and emergency services operating. The IMD continued to monitor the cyclone’s progress and provide updates. The storm’s prolonged presence over the Bay of Bengal, longer than typically observed for such systems, has baffled meteorologists. The aftermath of the storm is expected to cause further disruptions and recovery efforts will be ongoing.

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