Cyclone Fengal grew stronger and became a storm in the Bay of Bengal, with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) verifying its development at 2.30 pm on November 29. The storm, which started as a severe low pressure system, is forecasted to travel in a northwestern direction towards Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, causing heavy rainfall and powerful winds in various coastal districts of the area.
Discussing the path of the storm, Balachandran, Regional Meteorological Chief, stated, “The disturbance is currently positioned around 350 km to the southeast of Puducherry and is expected to develop into a cyclonic storm within the upcoming hours. “The crossing from Karaikal to Puducherry is anticipated to occur by midday on November 30. During the crossing, wind speeds of 70-80 mph are anticipated, with gusts possibly reaching 90-100 kmph.”
Anticipating harsh weather conditions, the Tamil Nadu government has released precautionary advice, urging construction firms to safeguard their equipment. Construction companies have been requested to bring down cranes and other equipment that pose a potential risk. The cyclone is forecasted to result in moderate rainfall in northern Tamil Nadu, with certain regions experiencing heavy to extreme precipitation. Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Chengalpet, Cuddalore, Villupuram, and Mayiladuthurai are the districts that have been impacted.
The storm is being closely monitored by IMD and Tamil Nadu authorities, with teams ready to offer assistance when necessary. Balachandran assured that we are completely ready and will closely watch the situation.
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Local officials acted promptly to allocate resources. The Tamil Nadu Revenue and Disaster Management Department has established 2,229 relief centers in regions with a forecast of heavy rainfall. At the moment, there are 471 individuals from 164 households staying in relief shelters in Thiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts.
The department is ready to conduct additional evacuations if necessary due to the threat of high winds. Moreover, billboards must be either brought down or strengthened to prevent accidents from falling objects.
