Sat Nov 30 23:31:48 UTC 2024: ## Cyclone Fengal Pummels Chennai, Claims Three Lives

**Chennai, Tamil Nadu, December 1, 2024** – Cyclone Fengal made landfall near Puducherry late Saturday night, November 30th, 2024, unleashing torrential rain and gale-force winds across northern Tamil Nadu. The storm caused widespread flooding in Chennai, resulting in the deaths of three people due to rain-related incidents.

The cyclone, the second to hit the Bay of Bengal this season, brought wind speeds gusting up to 90 km per hour. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai reported that the cyclone’s spiral bands crossed the coast by 7 p.m., with landfall occurring over the next few hours. Heavy rainfall is expected to continue throughout Sunday.

The severe weather conditions led to the closure of Chennai airport, resulting in the cancellation of over 226 flights and the diversion of at least 20 more. The airport remained closed until 4 a.m. on Sunday. Suburban train services were also significantly disrupted, with several lines suspended or rerouted due to waterlogging and strong winds. Chennai Metro Rail services, however, continued to operate normally.

Chennai experienced widespread flooding, with at least 53 major roads and seven subways becoming impassable. The Greater Chennai Corporation deployed 1700 workers and heavy machinery to address the waterlogging, which affected 334 locations across the city. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin oversaw relief efforts, assuring the public that the situation was under control. He also announced that food would be provided free of cost at Amma Unavagams (public canteens) across the city.

The heavy rainfall also impacted other areas. Puducherry authorities sent SMS alerts to 12 lakh residents, urging vigilance and providing information on relief centers. In Andhra Pradesh, several districts experienced heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, prompting warnings from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The Tamil Nadu Electricity Minister extended the deadline for electricity bill payments in affected districts until December 10th to ease the burden on residents. The Southern Railway also announced changes and cancellations to several train services.

While the immediate impact was severe, reservoirs vital for Chennai’s water supply saw a marginal increase in their water levels due to the heavy rainfall. Authorities emphasized the importance of heeding safety warnings and staying updated on weather reports. Helpline numbers were made widely available for those in need of assistance.

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