Sun Jan 11 02:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Cyclone Weakens After Landfall in Sri Lanka; Rain Alert Issued for Tamil Nadu

The Story

A deep depression in the Bay of Bengal, initially identified as a potential cyclone, has weakened significantly after making landfall in northern Sri Lanka. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the system, which had been moving west-northwest, crossed the Sri Lankan coast near Mullaitivu, between Trincomalee and Jaffna, on Saturday afternoon. The IMD further reports that the system has weakened into a depression. As a result, a weather advisory has been issued for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal, forecasting moderate rainfall with thunderstorms. Heavy rainfall is also expected in isolated locations across Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, Cuddalore, and Villupuram districts, as well as in Puducherry.

Key Points

  • A deep depression in the Bay of Bengal weakened into a depression after moving west-northwest.
  • The system made landfall on the northern coast of Sri Lanka, between Trincomalee and Jaffna, near Mullaitivu.
  • The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported the weakening of the system.
  • Moderate rainfall with thunderstorms is expected in parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal on January 11.
  • Heavy rainfall is predicted for isolated areas of Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, Cuddalore, Villupuram, and Puducherry.

Key Takeaways

  • The cyclone system, despite its initial potential, has weakened after making landfall.
  • The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is closely monitoring the situation and issuing timely advisories.
  • Residents of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry should prepare for moderate to heavy rainfall and potential disruptions.

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