Cyclone Fengal Hits Chennai:City Waterlogged,Rail Operations Disrupted, Airport Grounded Till 7 PM

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast of heavy to very high rainfall for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore districts, and Puducherry as Cyclone Fengal intensifies. These regions are expected to experience significant downpours, strong winds, and potential flooding as the storm moves closer to the coast. Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to stay indoors and remain vigilant as the cyclone brings severe weather conditions.

Cyclone Fengal Causes Widespread Disruptions in Chennai: Heavy Rain, Strong Winds, and Major Infrastructure Shutdowns

Cyclone Fengal has made landfall, bringing severe disruptions to Chennai as the city faces widespread waterlogging. With local rail operations suspended and commuters stranded, the situation has worsened, compounded by heavy rainfall and wind speeds reaching up to 90 km/hr,impacting regions from Karaikal to Mahabalipuram this afternoon. Affected districts include Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore, and Puducherry, which are bracing for intense rainfall.The Chennai airport remains closed for safety reasons, while local train services have been significantly reduced due to the adverse weather. Authorities have issued urgent advisories, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel as the region continues to battle the effects of the storm.

Red Alert Issued for Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry as Heavy Rainfall and Strong Winds Approach

Cyclone Fengal, currently brewing over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to make landfall on Saturday afternoon, November 30, bringing severe weather conditions to Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin conducted a review on Saturday, emphasizing the state’s preparedness as Cyclone Fengal is expected to bring heavy rainfall for the next 48 hours.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert in anticipation of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and high winds across the affected regions. The storm, which is expected to impact parts of Tamil Nadu, south Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and interior Karnataka, could also cause coastal flooding due to rising tides.

With the cyclonic storm gaining strength, IMD’s Cyclonic Division Head, Ananda Das, confirmed that areas like Chennai, Cuddalore, and Puducherry are likely to experience high winds reaching up to 90 km/h, alongside torrential downpours. Authorities have warned residents to stay indoors, avoid non-essential travel, and remain vigilant as the cyclone moves closer to the coast. With widespread disruptions in rail services, airport operations, and transportation, the state has ramped up emergency preparedness to safeguard communities in vulnerable areas.

Schools, Colleges Closed in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, Chennai Airport Remains Shut Till 7 PM

In preparation for Cyclone Fengal’s arrival, all schools and colleges in Puducherry and several districts of Tamil Nadu, including Kanchipuram, will remain closed on Saturday. The Puducherry Fisheries Department has also issued a warning for fishermen, advising them to refrain from venturing into the sea and to relocate their boats and equipment to higher ground to avoid damage from the storm.

Meanwhile, Chennai Airport has suspended operations from 12:30 PM to 7 PM due to forecasted high crosswinds. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather advisories for the region, urging the public to stay informed about potential disruptions.

Cyclone Fengal Relief Efforts: Distress Helplines Activated and Relief Centres Opened in Tamil Nadu

In response to the growing impact of Cyclone Fengal, the Department of Revenue and Disaster Management has activated toll-free helplines 112 and 1077 to provide immediate assistance to those in need. Additionally, emergency support can be accessed through the WhatsApp number 9488981070 for anyone unable to reach the helplines. These resources are available to assist with evacuations, medical emergencies, and other urgent needs. Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to stay connected through these channels to ensure swift and effective response during the cyclone’s impact.

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