Sat Nov 30 05:36:16 UTC 2024: **Cyclone Fengal Bears Down on Tamil Nadu; Red Alert Issued**

CHENNAI, India (November 30) – Cyclone Fengal is expected to make landfall on the Tamil Nadu coast this evening, prompting a red alert across several southern states. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that the cyclone, currently located about 230 km east-northeast of Nagapattinam, is moving west-northwest 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.

Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is anticipated in Tamil Nadu, South Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and interior Karnataka. Coastal districts of North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh will be hardest hit, with the interior of Tamil Nadu experiencing heavy rainfall on November 30th, according to IMD Head of Cyclonic Division, Ananda Das.

The impact is already being felt. Chennai airport has cancelled approximately 20 flights, with IndiGo temporarily suspending all arrivals and departures. One IndiGo flight from Abu Dhabi was diverted to Bengaluru. Coastal areas are experiencing rough seas and high tides, with flooding reported in Puttalam. Fishermen have been advised to remain ashore. Precautionary measures are underway, including the closure of schools and colleges and the opening of relief centers. The Chennai Metro Rail is closely monitoring the situation to prevent waterlogging. Residents are urged to remain indoors. Over 470 people have already been sheltered in relief camps.

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