Sat Nov 30 03:31:14 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal to Make Landfall in Tamil Nadu Saturday
**CHENNAI, November 29, 2024** – Cyclonic storm Fengal, after a three-day delay, is expected to make landfall on the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast Saturday afternoon, between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram. The storm, currently packing wind speeds of 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph, is moving northwest at 15 kmph.
The regional meteorological center (RMC) has issued a red alert for seven districts – Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, and Cuddalore – along with Puducherry, anticipating rainfall exceeding 20 cm. An orange alert is in place for several other districts. Heavy rainfall is expected to continue into Sunday as the cyclone moves inland.
The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has issued a high wave warning, forecasting waves of 3.1 to 4.6 meters along the Tamil Nadu coast until Saturday midnight. Fishermen have been advised to remain ashore until November 30. A storm surge of approximately 1 meter above the astronomical tide is anticipated, potentially inundating low-lying coastal areas.
Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to take precautions, including securing loose items, avoiding unnecessary travel during heavy rains, and considering relocation to safer areas if necessary. While Friday saw relatively light rainfall, temperatures across the state have dropped significantly, with Chennai recording a maximum temperature of 24.5°C, 5.3°C below normal. ISRO satellites have been instrumental in tracking the cyclone, which proved difficult to predict due to fluctuating atmospheric conditions.
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