Coastal Tamil Nadu is bracing for the impending impacts of Cyclone Fengal, which is predicted to form over the Bay of Bengal and provoke heavy rainfall across the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for various districts as the storm system intensifies. The deep depression currently located around 130 kilometers east-southeast of Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, is expected to strengthen significantly, threatening regions from Chennai to the southern Tamil Nadu coastline.
According to the IMD, this cyclone forms part of the northeast monsoon which is both awaited and feared by millions living along the coastal areas. This system is not the first of the season, as it follows October's Cyclone Dana, which hit Odisha with fierce intensity. Now, the focus has shifted Southeast, as the cyclone Fengal gathers strength.
The deep depression has been observed moving north-northwest at approximately 13 kilometers per hour. It is anticipated to make landfall near Tamil Nadu’s coastline around November 30. The state's regional meteorological office warns of severe impacts from the storm, including very heavy rainfall and strong winds of up to 65 kilometers per hour gusting along the coastal districts.
Immediate precautionary measures are being taken by local authorities. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has called for high-level preparedness reviews and has deployed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to vulnerable areas. An orange alert has been placed for several districts, including Chennai, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur.
Total disruptions are en route as the cyclone promises to impact various sectors. Schools and colleges have been ordered closed in many districts to safeguard students. Fishing activities have also been suspended, with mass advisories for coastal inhabitants to stay indoors as the storm approaches. Reports mention significant rainfall already hitting the coastal areas, underscoring the storm's ferocity; Nagapattinam recorded 127 mm of rain on November 27.
Additional alerts indicate varied levels of rainfall throughout the region; isolated places within Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Cuddalore districts could witness heavy to very heavy showers. The regional forecasts also predict gales and rough seas, making it hazardous for shipping and fishing vessels to remain at sea.
The government has also prepared relief camps and deployed medical teams to address any emergencies expected as the rain pours. It is necessary to stay vigilant and protective as conditions are ripe for flash floods, especially for residents of low-lying and vulnerable areas. Residents are urged to seek shelter away from flood-prone areas as conditions worsen.
Over the course of the next few days, continuous monitoring will inform adjustments to these warnings. The central weather bureau is focused on ensuring everyone stays informed about the cyclone’s development through the latest updates. Authorities are consistently monitoring rainfall data as it evolves. A significant amount of precautionary help and services is set up to battle future emergencies will be activated based on the evolution of the cyclone's path.
With the likelihood of the cyclone leading to substantial disruption including flight cancellations, postponed exams, and public holidays for coastal districts, the community is advised to prepare fully and stay tuned to the official announcements. Community awareness is key as many residents experienced the heavy repercussions of previous cyclones. Those who went through severe weather conditions before understand the overwhelming need for safety and preparedness.
Although cyclones can be devastating, the vast experience of Tamil Nadu with such weather systems means well-practiced response mechanisms are ready to mitigate risks and protect lives. This familiarization can significantly reduce the adverse effects on the populous regions.
Before the cyclone hits, individuals and families are reminded to implement safety measures at home, gather emergency supplies, and check their insurance policies. Experts suggest updating emergency contacts and power supplies, as power outages may occur. The state looks to ride out Cyclone Fengal, keeping hope and safety at the forefront against the brewing storm, willing to unite as one community during the stormy period.
