Cyclone Fengal to Strike Tamil Nadu Coast in 2 days: Warnings Issued, Schools Closed

Cyclone Fengal, originating in the Bay of Bengal, is expected to make landfall on the Tamil Nadu coast in 2 days. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast extremely heavy rains, particularly in Cuddalore and Mayiladuthurai, with yellow and red alerts issued across several districts, including Chennai. Strong winds and torrential rains may cause significant damage in coastal areas, prompting urgent preparedness measures.

It is raining continuously in Chennai, Chengalpet, Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam. Schools and colleges have been closed in these 6 districts. 7 flights were delayed in Chennai on Tuesday.

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin held a high-level meeting regarding the impact of the storm. 7 teams of NDRF have been deployed in Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam and Cuddalore districts.

Schools and Colleges Closed, Administration on High Alert

In response to the imminent cyclone, schools and colleges have been shut in districts such as Chennai, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Cuddalore. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin convened a high-level meeting on Tuesday to oversee preparedness efforts. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local relief teams have been deployed in all vulnerable districts. Relief camps are operational, with public facilities and essential supplies ready to accommodate those in need.

Heavy Rainfall Expected Across Coastal Districts

According to the IMD's forecast, moderate to heavy rainfall is expected across Tamil Nadu's coastal regions on 27 November, with isolated areas likely to experience extremely heavy downpours. Wind speeds are projected to range between 65-75 km/h, posing a risk of uprooted trees and power outages. Rainfall is expected to taper off by 28 November, but light to moderate showers may persist. Coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka are also likely to experience the cyclone's effects.

Fishermen Warned to Avoid the Sea

Strict warnings have been issued to fishermen, urging them to stay ashore until 29 November. Those already at sea have been instructed to return immediately. Fishing activities have been banned along the coastal regions of the Bay of Bengal and Tamil Nadu. The Coast Guard is actively patrolling the area to ensure compliance. Similar alerts have been extended to fishermen in the coastal regions of West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh.

Cyclone Named 'Fengal' by Saudi Arabia

The cyclone's name, Fengal, was provided by Saudi Arabia under the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) naming guidelines. These guidelines ensure the selected name is easy to pronounce, memorable, and culturally neutral to avoid offending any group. This systematic naming approach helps streamline communication and preparedness efforts during cyclonic events.

Relief centres set up

Authorities urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow official guidance. Coastal residents should prepare for potential flooding, power outages, and disruptions to transportation. Relief centers are equipped to provide temporary shelter and essential services to those in need.