Cyclonic Storm Fengal, originating in the Southwest Bay of Bengal, has intensified into a significant weather system, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding to the southeastern coast of India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and parts of Andhra Pradesh as the storm approaches, with landfall expected between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram on November 30. The storm is also anticipated to impact neighboring states, including Kerala and Karnataka.
Formation and Trajectory
Fengal formed as a deep depression earlier this week, gaining strength as it moved northwestward. Positioned near Sri Lanka’s northeastern coast, the system is forecast to intensify further before making landfall. IMD tracking indicates that Fengal will bring sustained winds of 65–75 km/h, gusting to 85 km/h. The storm’s trajectory places Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in its direct path, with severe implications for coastal and inland areas.
Impacts on Affected Regions
Tamil Nadu and Puducherry
Heavy rainfall has already caused significant disruptions in Tamil Nadu, particularly in the Cauvery delta region. Reports indicate widespread damage to standing paddy crops across 800 acres, with areas like Nagapattinam and Thanjavur among the hardest hit. Coastal regions are facing rough seas, affecting fishing activities and daily life.
Authorities have closed schools and colleges in nine districts, including Chennai, Villupuram, and Tiruvallur. Relief teams have been deployed to provide essentials like food, water, and medical supplies to affected communities. The Eastern Naval Command is assisting with rescue and relief operations, positioning specialized teams in vulnerable areas.
Sri Lanka
The storm has also impacted Sri Lanka, where heavy rains have triggered floods, leaving at least eight people missing. Search and rescue teams are actively working in flood-hit areas as the storm skirts the island’s coastline.
Kerala and Karnataka
The IMD predicts that Kerala and Karnataka will experience heavy to very heavy rainfall on November 30 as Fengal’s influence extends beyond Tamil Nadu. Coastal and hilly areas are particularly at risk of flooding and landslides.
Government and Emergency Responses
State and central governments are closely monitoring the situation. The IMD has issued advisories for fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea, and air travel disruptions are expected, particularly in Chennai, Tuticorin, and Madurai. Airlines like IndiGo have issued travel advisories, cautioning passengers about delays and cancellations.
ISRO is using satellites EOS-06 and INSAT-3DR to track Fengal’s progress, providing critical data on ocean winds and storm intensity to aid in timely decision-making. Flood relief vehicles and medical teams are on standby, ready to respond to emergencies.
Future Outlook
The storm’s effects are likely to persist until December 1, with continuous rainfall exacerbating risks of flooding in urban and rural areas. Residents in the affected regions are advised to remain cautious and adhere to government directives. Relief and recovery efforts will focus on restoring normalcy in the aftermath of the storm’s impact.
Cyclone Fengal serves as a reminder of the need for robust disaster preparedness and efficient response mechanisms to mitigate the effects of severe weather events. For further updates, continue following credible news sources and government advisories.
Sources:
- Information from the India Meteorological Department and related emergency alerts【136】【137】【138】.
- Reports on the impact of Cyclone Fengal in Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka, and other areas【137】【138】.
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