Cyclone Fengal: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that the deep depression over the Bay of Bengal will move north-northwest, pass near Sri Lanka, and intensify into a cyclonic storm. The cyclone is expected to bring heavy to extreme rainfall to Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh, prompting the IMD to issue a red alert for these regions today.
Additionally, a yellow alert has been issued for South Karnataka, with rainfall anticipated in the area on Friday, November 29.
The cyclone is expected to intensify over the next 48 hours, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and a heightened risk of flooding to the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh.
The deep depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, initially projected to intensify into a cyclonic storm, is now likely to gradually weaken into a depression as it nears the northern coasts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, according to ANI reports. The IMD stated that the system will continue moving northwestward, maintaining its strength as a deep depression until November 29, 2024, before weakening as it approaches the region.
Following the weather department’s forecast of heavy rainfall in Puducherry, authorities have announced that schools and colleges will remain closed on Friday and Saturday.
As Cyclone Fengal strengthens in the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Navy has initiated a comprehensive disaster response plan to address the potential impact on Tamil Nadu’s coastal regions.
- Heavy rainfall is expected in the coastal districts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh in the coming days.
- Fishermen in both states have been advised to avoid venturing into the Bay of Bengal due to rough sea conditions.
- Jharkhand may experience fog and partial cloud cover starting Friday due to Cyclone Fengal’s influence, as reported by PTI. The cyclone is also likely to raise minimum temperatures by 2-3°C over the next two days, according to weather officials.
- Naval authorities, focusing on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, are coordinating closely with state and civil administrations for a swift response.
- Relief vehicles loaded with essential supplies, including food, drinking water, and medicines, are being prepared, while specialised First Response Teams (FRTs) are being deployed to high-risk areas.
