Sat Nov 30 19:46:18 UTC 2024: **Cyclone Phethai Intensifies, Makes Landfall Near Puducherry; Chennai, Andhra Pradesh Affected**

**Chennai, November 30, 2024** – Cyclone Phethai, currently centered 50 km from Mahabalipuram, 80 km from Puducherry, and 90 km from Chennai, is intensifying and moving towards the coast at a speed of 10 km per hour. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the cyclone is expected to make landfall near Puducherry, between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, tonight. The IMD predicts strong winds of up to 90 km/h during landfall.

The cyclone’s impact is already being felt across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. In Chennai, torrential rain has caused widespread flooding, bringing traffic to a standstill and prompting the temporary closure of the airport and cancellation of several flights. Schools and colleges are closed. People have parked their cars on flyovers for safety.

Andhra Pradesh’s Nellore and Tirupati districts are experiencing heavy rainfall and strong winds (70-90 km/h along the coast). Authorities warn of potential flash floods in Nellore, Chittoor, and Kadapa districts. Four flights have been cancelled at Tirupati Airport. Significant flooding is reported in several towns in the Tirupati district. The Gudur, Kota, and Vakadu areas are also experiencing heavy rainfall, and the Chennai-Tada National Highway is heavily flooded. In Bapatla district, continuous heavy rainfall since Friday evening is causing concern among farmers whose crops are ready for harvest.

The IMD has issued a red alert for Tirupati and Nellore districts, an orange alert for Chittoor and Anantapur, and a yellow alert for several other districts in Andhra Pradesh, including Prakasam, YSR Kadapa, Kurnool, West Godavari, Kakinada, Anakapalli, and Visakhapatnam. Authorities urge residents in low-lying areas to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has held a review meeting with officials regarding the cyclone’s impact.

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