Red Alert Issued for Tamil Nadu as Cyclone Fengal Approaches, Landfall Expected Saturday Afternoon

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several districts of Tamil Nadu in anticipation of Cyclone Fengal, which is expected to make landfall on Saturday afternoon, November 30, near Puducherry. The storm, currently intensifying over the Bay of Bengal, could bring winds of up to 90 km/h, along with heavy rainfall and high tides to the region.

Ananda Das, Head of the IMD's Cyclonic Division, confirmed that the red alert was issued due to the anticipated heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, as well as parts of south Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and interior Karnataka.

According to Dr. S. Balachandran, Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai, the coastal districts—particularly the area between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram near Puducherry—are expected to experience the most significant impacts. Winds are currently reaching speeds of 50-60 km/h, with gusts of up to 70 km/h. Between 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm on Saturday, extremely heavy rainfall is expected in many locations, with widespread heavy to very heavy rain in the affected areas.

In response to the severe weather conditions, all schools and colleges in Puducherry and several Tamil Nadu districts, including Kanchipuram, will remain closed on Saturday.

Fishing Advisory and Safety Measures

The Puducherry Fisheries Department has issued an advisory, urging fishermen to refrain from venturing into the sea. Fishermen are also advised to secure their boats and equipment in higher ground to minimize the risk of damage from the approaching storm.

Key Updates on Cyclone Fengal:

• Cyclone Fengal is forecast to make landfall on the Tamil Nadu coast on the afternoon of Saturday, November 30.
• A red alert has been issued for regions likely to experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, including coastal districts in North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh.
• All schools and educational institutions in Puducherry and parts of Tamil Nadu will be closed on Saturday, November 30.
• Fishermen in impacted districts have been advised to avoid going to sea.
• Areas at risk include Kamashwaram, Virundhamavadi, Pudupalli, Vedrappu, Vanamadevi, Vallapallam, Kallimedu, Eeravayal, and Chemboadi.
• The Department of Revenue and Disaster Management has activated emergency hotlines (112 and 1077) to assist the public, with additional support available through WhatsApp at +91 9488981070.
• As of the latest report, 471 individuals from 164 families have been relocated to six relief centres in Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts.
• The Indian Navy has also mobilized its disaster response teams in preparation for the cyclone's impact.

Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to remain alert and follow safety guidelines as Cyclone Fengal approaches.