Cyclone Fengal to Hit Tamil Nadu Coast: Gusty Winds to Blow at 90 KMPH, IMD Predicts Heavy Rainfall

Cyclone Fengal, originating from the Bay of Bengal, is expected to make landfall between Karaikal in Puducherry and Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu by Saturday evening. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of wind speeds reaching up to 90 km/h during this period, accompanied by heavy rainfall in several regions of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

Schools, Colleges Closed; Stay-Home Advisory Issued

In anticipation of the cyclone, authorities have announced the closure of all schools and colleges on Saturday. Residents are advised to remain indoors for their safety. The cyclone’s effects were already evident from November 28, with the onset of rain and strong winds across coastal areas.

Second Post-Monsoon Cyclone This Year

Cyclone Fengal is the second major storm to affect India during the post-monsoon season, following Cyclone Dana, which struck in late October.

Severe Impact on Tamil Nadu’s Agriculture

The cyclone’s impact is most pronounced in Tamil Nadu. Heavy rainfall has severely damaged paddy crops, with over 800 acres submerged in Nagapattinam district alone. Other districts, including Kameshwaram, Virudhamavadi, Pudupalli, and Kallimedu, have also been affected. Chennai and surrounding districts have experienced light to moderate rainfall, while heavy to very heavy rains are predicted in interior areas of the state until December 3.

Relief vehicles deployed

The Eastern Naval Command has activated its disaster response protocols. Relief vehicles carrying essential supplies such as food, water, and medicine are being dispatched. Flood response teams have been deployed in vulnerable areas to mitigate potential damage.

2,000 relief camps set up

The Tamil Nadu government has established around 2,000 relief camps, with 471 individuals from 164 families already housed in six centers in Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts. Emergency helpline numbers, 112 and 1077, along with a WhatsApp helpline at 9488981070, have been made available for public assistance.

Proactive Measures by Authorities

Approximately 4,000 fishing boats have returned to shore following the weather department’s warnings. District administrations have readied essential equipment, including boats, generators, and motor pumps, to address flooding and power outages.

Private companies have been instructed to allow employees to work from home. Authorities have also restricted movement on roads near the coast to ensure public safety.

Emergency Response Teams deployed

Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been deployed to affected areas to provide timely assistance.

As Cyclone Fengal approaches, the coordinated efforts by the government, naval forces, and disaster management teams aim to minimize the impact on human lives and property. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow official updates and advisories.