Cyclone Fengal has intensified into a storm in the Bay of Bengal, prompting authorities to issue red alerts for coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The cyclone, which began as a deep depression, is expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding to the region.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed Cyclone Fengal’s formation at 2:30 PM on November 29. As of the latest update, the cyclone is located approximately:
350 km southeast of Puducherry
310 km southeast of Nagapattinam
410 km southeast of Puducherry
480 km south-southeast of Chennai
The cyclone is moving north-northwestward at a speed of 9-15 kmph. It is expected to intensify further within the next 24 hours and make landfall between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, close to Puducherry, by the morning of November 30.
Wind Speed: At the time of landfall, wind speeds are predicted to reach 70-80 kmph, with gusts up to 90-100 kmph.
Rainfall: Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected across northern Tamil Nadu, with some areas likely to receive extremely heavy rainfall. The following districts are particularly at risk:
Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Chengalpet, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Mayiladuthurai
The IMD has warned of rough sea conditions and advised fishermen not to venture into the ocean. High tides and gusty winds are already being experienced in Chennai.
Western Ghat districts and interior parts of Tamil Nadu may experience heavy rainfall from December 1 to December 3.
Red Alert: A red weather alert has been issued for seven coastal districts, indicating the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall on November 30.
School and College Closures: The Puducherry government has announced the closure of all schools and colleges in the union territory on November 29 and 30.
Relief Centers: 2,229 relief centers have been set up across the affected regions, with 471 people already moved to these camps in Nagapattinam and Tiruvarur districts.
Indian Navy Response: The Indian Navy has activated a comprehensive disaster response plan. They are:
Collaborating with state and civil administrations for rapid response
Loading vehicles with essential relief materials, including food, drinking water, and medicines
S. Balachandran, Additional Director General of Meteorology, Chennai, described Cyclone Fengal as a complex and different weather disturbance compared to recent cyclones in the Bay of Bengal. The system gained strength as it moved away from the Sri Lankan landmass, benefiting from improved wind convergence and decreased wind shear.
The cyclone’s slow movement and dynamic nature have led to variations in forecasts by different weather models. This complexity has made it challenging for meteorologists to predict its exact behavior.
Andhra Pradesh: The state has recorded light rainfall, with a red alert continuing for Rayalaseema districts on November 30.
Jharkhand: The state is likely to experience fog and partial cloud cover under the influence of Cyclone Fengal from November 29.
Chennai experienced chilly weather on November 29, with the day temperature dropping to 24.5 degrees Celsius. This temperature drop is attributed to the approaching cyclone.
As of 8:30 AM on November 29, the heaviest rainfall in Tamil Nadu was recorded at:
Kathivakkam: 6 cm
Chennai Collector Office: 6 cm
DGP office: 6 cm
Cyclone Fengal joins a list of notable cyclones that have affected the region in recent years, including Cyclones Dana and Ockhi. The naming of these cyclones follows the IMD’s convention, with ‘Fengal’ being suggested by Saudi Arabia.
The IMD and other meteorological agencies continue to monitor Cyclone Fengal’s progress closely. Regular updates are being issued to keep the public and authorities informed of any changes in the cyclone’s intensity or trajectory.
As Cyclone Fengal approaches the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast, authorities are on high alert and have implemented extensive preparedness measures. The next 24-48 hours will be crucial as the cyclone makes landfall and moves inland. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay vigilant, follow official advisories, and prioritize their safety. The impact of Cyclone Fengal serves as a reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of cyclonic storms in the Bay of Bengal, highlighting the need for continued investment in weather forecasting technology and disaster preparedness strategies.
