Sat Nov 30 08:31:18 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Batters Tamil Nadu Coast, Chennai Airport Shuts Down
**Chennai, Tamil Nadu, November 30, 2024** – Cyclonic storm Fengal unleashed heavy rains and gusty winds across northern Tamil Nadu and Puducherry today, disrupting normal life and prompting widespread precautionary measures. The storm is expected to make landfall near Puducherry this evening.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, issued a red alert for several districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, and Cuddalore, as well as Puducherry. Schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu are closed, and IT companies are urged to allow employees to work from home. Public transport on the East Coast Road (ECR) and Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR) is temporarily suspended.
Chennai Airport has temporarily suspended all flight operations due to the severe weather. Numerous subways in Chennai have been closed due to waterlogging. The Chennai Metro Rail is operating, but lifts are out of service in some stations. Suburban train services are also operating at reduced frequency.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin visited the State Emergency Operations Centre and conducted a video conference with district collectors to review the situation and relief measures. Free food is being provided at Amma Unavagams in Chennai. The Puducherry administration has also taken precautionary measures, including evacuating people from low-lying areas and setting up relief shelters.
The IMD has issued storm warning signals for various coastal areas, with signal 7 issued for Puducherry and Cuddalore. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea. Tourist spots in Puducherry are closed.
While rainfall in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry has been consistent with normal levels this monsoon season, the intense rainfall from Cyclone Fengal has led to significant waterlogging and disruption. Reports indicate sanitation workers are struggling with inadequate safety equipment while clearing waterlogged areas.
The University of Madras’ Institute of Distance Education has postponed an examination scheduled for December 1st. Helpline numbers have been activated across affected districts for assistance.
The unusually long lifespan of Cyclone Fengal before intensifying has surprised meteorologists. Reports from Sri Lanka indicate that a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has already claimed 15 lives and affected over 450,000 people. Authorities across the affected regions continue to monitor the situation and implement emergency measures.
First Piper 