Cyclone Fengal: Chennai Faces Heavy Rain, Landfall Expected Tomorrow
Chennai and surrounding regions experienced heavy rainfall on Friday as Cyclone Fengal intensified over the Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that the cyclone is likely to make landfall between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, close to Puducherry, by Saturday morning.
Rainfall and Alerts
Chennai recorded widespread downpours, with several areas reporting waterlogging and traffic disruptions. Coastal districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry have been placed on high alert, with red warnings issued for heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 24 hours. Wind speeds are expected to reach 70-90 km/h, with gusts of up to 100 km/h near the landfall zone.
Preparations in Full Swing
The Tamil Nadu government has ramped up disaster preparedness, deploying National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams in vulnerable areas. Fishermen have been advised to stay ashore, and the ports of Chennai, Cuddalore, and Karaikal have halted operations temporarily. The government has set up over 1,000 relief shelters to accommodate evacuees, and essential supplies are being distributed to affected communities.
Schools and colleges in Chennai, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu, and other coastal districts remain closed as a precautionary measure. Authorities are also closely monitoring reservoirs to ensure controlled water release to prevent flooding.
IMD Forecast
Cyclone Fengal is currently classified as a "severe cyclonic storm" and is likely to weaken slightly before making landfall. IMD Director-General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra emphasized that the storm will bring widespread rainfall, especially in the northern coastal districts of Tamil Nadu and southern Andhra Pradesh.
The storm surge, estimated at 1-1.5 meters, could inundate low-lying areas along the coastline. Residents have been urged to stay indoors and follow updates from local authorities.
Government Response
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin chaired a high-level meeting to review cyclone preparedness and urged citizens to cooperate with evacuation efforts. Relief teams are on standby to address power outages and infrastructure damage.
Meanwhile, the Indian Navy and Coast Guard are monitoring the situation and are ready to assist with rescue operations if required.
Citizens are advised to stay updated on weather warnings and avoid venturing into affected areas as the cyclone approaches its landfall.
