Cyclone Fengal, which made landfall over Tamil Nadu's coastal regions on Saturday, has wreaked havoc, leaving at least 19 dead and causing widespread damage. The storm intensified into a cyclonic storm as it approached the state, bringing heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and flooding to districts such as Villupuram, Cuddalore, and Puducherry. The cyclone's trajectory shifted closer to Mahabalipuram, intensifying its impact across Chennai and its surroundings.
In the wake of the storm, the Tamil Nadu government declared holidays for schools in several districts and urged residents to stay indoors. As rain and wind continued throughout the weekend, authorities focused on rescue and relief operations. Thousands were evacuated from affected areas, and disaster management teams worked tirelessly to assist those in need. Reports of severe infrastructure damage, including uprooted trees and collapsed buildings, have emerged, making recovery efforts more challenging.
Public transport in several areas was suspended, and power outages were widespread. The storm's impact has been particularly harsh on agriculture, with crops in several regions reported as damaged. Local farmers are now facing significant losses due to the flooding and destruction of farmland.
Efforts are underway to clear roads, restore power lines, and provide aid to affected communities. The state’s authorities are prioritizing the swift restoration of essential services, including water supply and transportation. Meteorological authorities had earlier issued red alerts, warning of the storm's strength and the potential for further damage.
As the state deals with the aftermath of Cyclone Fengal, the recovery process is expected to take weeks, with additional challenges posed by the widespread damage to infrastructure. Local authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage, while national agencies are expected to provide further support for the relief operations.
