tamil-nadu-on-alert-as-cyclone-fengal-approaches-coast

The deep depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal intensified into Cyclone Fengal on Friday afternoon, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai.

 

The storm, moving north-northwestwards at 13 kmph, was located approximately 310 km north-northeast of Trincomalee, 260 km east of Nagapattinam, 270 km east-southeast of Puducherry, and 300 km southeast of Chennai at 2:30 p.m.

 

The cyclone is predicted to make landfall between Karaikal and Mamallapuram, near Puducherry, on Saturday afternoon.

 

Wind speeds are expected to reach 70-80 kmph, with gusts of up to 90 kmph, as the storm crosses the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast.

Heavy rainfall forecast

The Met Office has issued warnings of extremely heavy rainfall in isolated places, including Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Puducherry, and Karaikal on Friday.

 

Saturday’s landfall is expected to bring torrential downpours to seven coastal districts of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai and neighbouring areas, as well as Puducherry.

 

Delta districts and northern interior regions may also experience heavy to very heavy rainfall during the day.

 

Authorities are closely monitoring the cyclone’s trajectory. The RMC has urged residents in vulnerable regions to take precautions and stay updated on weather advisories.

 

Essential services are being mobilised to address potential disruptions caused by the storm.

 

As Tamil Nadu braces for Cyclone Fengal’s impact, the focus remains on minimising damage and ensuring public safety.