Sun Dec 01 08:16:36 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Weakens After Lashing Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

**Chennai, India –** Cyclone Fengal made landfall near Puducherry on Saturday, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The cyclone, which weakened into a deep depression within six hours of landfall, caused widespread disruption to transportation and daily life.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued warnings of heavy rainfall, and the predictions proved accurate. Chennai and its surrounding districts, along with Puducherry, experienced torrential downpours throughout Saturday, leading to significant flooding in low-lying areas. Public transport, including buses, trains, and flights, was severely affected. Chennai airport remained closed for 16 hours before reopening Sunday at 4 a.m., though flight operations were still disrupted.

The Indian Army’s Chennai Garrison Battalion was deployed to Puducherry late Saturday night to assist with rescue efforts. Over 100 people were rescued from flooded areas, including approximately 500 trapped in Krishna Nagar, where water levels reached five feet in some places.

While authorities reported no major damage immediately following the cyclone, the heavy rainfall resulted in significant flooding across the region. Chennai reported 11.4 cm of rainfall, while Puducherry saw a staggering 39 cm. The deluge caused waterlogging in hospitals and homes, and three deaths were reported due to electrocution. Greater Chennai Corporation distributed meals to approximately 232,000 people, and around 200 people were housed in eight relief camps.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and his deputy, Udayanidhi Stalin, reviewed the relief efforts and conducted on-site inspections. Efforts were underway to clear waterlogged areas using 1,700 motor pumps deployed across 334 locations in Chennai. Power supply, disrupted in most areas due to strong winds, was gradually restored. The Puducherry administration proactively sent SMS alerts to 1.2 million residents, warning them about the impending cyclone.

While the immediate aftermath saw significant disruption and flooding, authorities are currently assessing the full extent of the damage, with a more comprehensive report expected in the coming days. The IMD continues to monitor the remnants of Cyclone Fengal.

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