New Delhi: The deep depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into Cyclone Fengal between the evening of November 28 and the morning of November 29.
According to the latest update from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the depression has moved northwards and is likely to evolve into Cyclone Fengal. It is projected to cross the northern Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram around Saturday morning, with wind speeds reaching 50-60 kilometers per hour (kmph) and gusts up to 70 kmph. The IMD suggests that the deep depression may marginally intensify into a cyclonic storm during this period.
S Kumar, Duty Officer at the Visakhapatnam Cyclone Warning Centre, told news agency, “The deep depression is likely to skirt Sri Lanka’s coast and approach the Tamil Nadu coast over the next two days. Coastal Andhra Pradesh districts can expect rainfall in the coming days.”
The adverse weather has already led to flight delays. IndiGo Airlines notified passengers that services to and from Chennai, Tuticorin, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, and Salem would be affected.
Impact on Flights and Alerts
Heavy rains in Tamil Nadu have disrupted flight operations. IndiGo Airlines stated, “We were hoping for clearer skies, but the weather situation persists, impacting flights.”
#6ETravelAdvisory: We were hoping for clearer skies, but the weather situation continues to persist, impacting flights to/from #Chennai, #Tuticorin, #Madurai, #Tiruchirappalli & #Salem.
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) November 28, 2024
A yellow alert has been issued for Chennai and nearby districts, with an orange alert for the Delta districts, anticipating heavy to very heavy rainfall. The weather department predicts that Cuddalore and Mayiladuthurai in the Delta region may experience extremely intense rainfall exceeding 24.4 cm on Thursday.
Deep Depression in the #BayofBengal likely to intensify into a cyclone and move towards #Tamilnadu, as per #IMD. @IndiaCoastGuard Region HQs (East) is coordinating with state agencies to ensure seafarers safety. #ICG Ships, Aircraft & Radar Stations issuing advisories for fishing… pic.twitter.com/Q1PLjRHXXH
— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) November 27, 2024
Safety Measures and Preparedness
Given the forecast and current weather conditions, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is working with Tamil Nadu state agencies to ensure the safety of seafarers. The ICG has issued advisories for fishing boats to return to the harbour due to rough sea conditions. Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing into the Bay of Bengal.
The Indian Navy has developed a comprehensive disaster response plan, focusing on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Vehicles are being loaded with essential supplies, including food, drinking water, and medicines. Flood Relief Teams are positioned in vulnerable areas to provide immediate aid.
Schools and colleges in Chennai remain closed as a precaution.
Stay safe and updated as Tamil Nadu braces for Cyclone Fengal.
