According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Cyclone Fengal, pronounced “Feinjal,” is expected to make landfall on the evening of 30th November, between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram. The cyclone is expected to come in with winds of 70 to 80 km/h and gusts of up to 90 kmph. Heavy rain is expected in the districts of Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore, and Puducherry. Due to the ongoing poor weather conditions, the Chennai airport has been closed till the evening, and the frequency of local trains has been lowered.
The Department of Revenue and Disaster Management has set up toll-free numbers 112 and 1077 to receive distress calls from the public. Residents can also seek help through WhatsApp at “9488981070”. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin held a review meeting on Saturday to assess the state’s readiness, as heavy rainfall is expected to continue for the next 48 hours due to Cyclone Fengal.
Travel Disruptions
Multiple flights in and out of Chennai have been affected, and the authorities have asked the passengers to keep themselves updated about the flight status. The India Meteorological Department has issued a “red alert” for several districts in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry. Heavy rainfall, high tides, and other severe weather conditions are expected in the affected areas.
Cyclone Impact and Safety Alerts
According to Ananda Das, Cyclonic Division Head of IMD, “The red alert‘ is issued because it is expected that many regions will experience heavy to extremely heavy rains especially in the areas of Tamil Nadu, South Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka. IMD predicts that North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh coastal districts would face the full impact of the storm since Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, near Puducherry, are close by. Wind speeds have touched “50-60 kmph,” gusting to 70 kmph. Extremely heavy rainfall is likely between 1 pm and 2 pm.
Considering the weather, all schools and colleges in Puducherry and parts of Tamil Nadu, including Kanchipuram, will be closed on Saturday. The Puducherry Fisheries Department has also issued a warning to fishermen not to venture into the sea as Cyclone Fengal approaches. Fishermen are asked to move their boats and equipment to higher ground to reduce potential damage.
Cyclone Fengal is going to land on the Tamil Nadu coast by Saturday afternoon. The IMD has predicted heavy rain across various districts, including Kamashwaram, Virundhamavadi, Pudupalli, Vedrappu, Vanamadevi, Vallapallam, Kallimedu, Eeravayal, and Chemboadi, so far.
Relief centers have been opened in Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts, where 471 persons from 164 families have already been accommodated in 6 centers. The Indian Navy has also put in place an all-encompassing disaster response plan in anticipation of the effects of the cyclone.
Precautions Before, During, and After Cyclone Fengal:
In addition to local advisories, here are some important precautions to take before, during, and after the cyclone:
Home Preparation: Secure loose tiles, repair doors and windows, and remove dead branches or any loose objects around your home that may become projectiles in strong winds.
Emergency Supplies: Ensure you have wooden boards ready to cover windows, battery-operated torches, and enough dry cells. Store non-perishable food and water in case of an emergency.
Power Safety: Have a hurricane lantern with kerosene and avoid any loose or dangling electrical wires. If driving, drive carefully.
Disaster Relief: In case of evacuation, stay in designated shelters until it is safe to return home, and report any damages or losses to the appropriate authorities.
With these steps, residents can better safeguard their families and property during the storm. Stay safe and heed all local safety instructions as Cyclone Fengal makes landfall.
