Sun Dec 01 01:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Heavy Rains Lash Tamil Nadu as Cyclone Fengal Remains Stationary Offshore
**Chennai, India** – Heavy rains and strong winds continue to batter Tamil Nadu as Cyclone Fengal remains stubbornly stationary off the coast, prompting severe weather warnings for several districts. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin conducted an assessment at the state emergency control room in Chennai, inquiring about relief efforts in affected areas.
He emphasized the limitations of weather forecasting, stating, “Weather can only be predicted to a certain extent. How can we predict that the cyclone’s speed will decrease and remain in one place? It changes suddenly.” He added that the government is taking precautionary measures based on information from the Meteorological Department and dismissed circulating videos of past waterlogging as outdated and misleading. He assured citizens that Chennai remains calm and safe, with necessary relief measures in place.
Puducherry, already drenched with 47 cm of rainfall, is experiencing renewed heavy downpours. A government bus is stranded near Nambiyampattu in Tiruvannamalai district due to flash floods, leaving passengers stranded since last night. High-level officials in Puducherry are holding emergency meetings to coordinate rescue operations.
Private meteorologist Pradeep John reported that Cyclone Fengal has yet to make landfall and is expected to do so later today. He warned of potential heavy showers in Chennai throughout the day.
Ministerial visits are underway to oversee relief efforts, with Ministers Sivashankar and Senthil Balaji deployed to Viluppuram and Marakkanam respectively. Other ministers are already actively involved in relief operations. In Kottakupam, Viluppuram district, homes are inundated, necessitating rescue operations by rubber boats from non-governmental organizations.
Chief Minister Stalin personally inspected rain-affected areas in Kolathur, Chennai, and interacted with residents to address their concerns. Cleanup efforts are underway in Chennai to clear fallen trees and remove waterlogged areas. Puducherry continues to experience widespread flooding, significantly disrupting daily life.
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