Sun Dec 01 08:16:35 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Makes Landfall in Tamil Nadu, Causes Widespread Disruption
**Chennai, December 1, 2024** – Cyclone Fengal made landfall on the Tamil Nadu coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram around 2 am on Sunday, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and widespread disruption to the region. The cyclone, initially forecast to move west-southwest, remained stationary for six hours near Puducherry before weakening.
The storm, with wind speeds reaching 70-80 km/h, gusting up to 90 km/h, caused significant impact in coastal districts of north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh. Chennai airport briefly suspended flight operations but resumed at 4 am, though numerous flights were delayed or cancelled, causing considerable inconvenience to passengers. Several flights from Hyderabad were also affected. One passenger reported a 12-hour delay at the airport. An IndiGo Airbus A320 neo even struggled to land during the storm.
Heavy rainfall led to severe waterlogging in several Chennai neighborhoods, including parts of Korattur, Velachery-Madipakkam, and Kodungaiyur. Suburban areas also experienced significant flooding, with some residents forced to elevate their appliances. Even two state-run hospitals in Chromepet were inundated. The Madley subway was closed due to waterlogging.
The Indian Army and NDRF launched relief operations at 6:15 am, evacuating over 100 people in the first two hours. Tragically, three people were electrocuted in rain-related incidents, including a migrant worker near an ATM. The Indian Army also conducted rescue operations in Puducherry.
The IMD issued red alerts for parts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry, warning of high tides and heavy rainfall. Schools and colleges remained closed in Puducherry and several Tamil Nadu districts. Fishermen were advised not to venture into the sea. The cyclone’s impact also led to temperature drops in Bengaluru. Train services were also affected, with some cancellations and diversions.
While Fengal weakened into a deep depression after landfall, its impact continues to be felt across the region. Relief and recovery efforts are underway.
First Piper 