<a href="https://www.archyde.com/tamil-nadu-weather-forecast-cyclone-alert-issued-for-tamil-nadu-schools-closed-due-to-heavy-rainfall-warning/" title="Tamil Nadu Weather Forecast: Cyclone Alert Issued for Tamil Nadu, Schools Closed Due to Heavy Rainfall Warning”>Cyclone Fengal Makes Landfall, Heavy Rainfall Expected Along Tamil Nadu Coast
Chennai, India
Cyclone Fengal made landfall early Sunday morning, crossing the Tamil Nadu coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, marking the beginning of a 48-hour period of anticipated heavy rainfall.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that after landfall, Cyclone Fengal is projected to weaken into a deep depression within the next six hours, moving west-southwestwards.
The catastrophic event prompted authorities to take preemptive measures, leading to flight cancellations at Chennai airport, which suspended all operations until Sunday morning.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin convened a meeting to evaluate the state’s preparedness for the cyclone. Schools and colleges across Puducherry and various districts of Tamil Nadu, including Kanchipuram, will remain closed on Saturday, the Puducherry fisheries department has issued an advisory urging fishermen to refrain from venturing into the sea due to the approaching cyclone, recommending that they move their boats and equipment to safer, higher ground.
Multiple flights to and from Chennai were primarily affected, with authorities issuing advise travelling for fliers amid persistent heavy rains. In addition, Chennai Airport suspended all its operations till
While meteorologists expected heavy rainfall in coastal districts, the
IMD warned of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several parts of Tamil Nadu,
south Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and interior Karnataka, triggering a red alert.
Dr. S Balachandran, Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre, Chennai, stated that coastal areas between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, near Puducherry, are anticipated to bear the brunt of the cyclone.
“Strong winds have lashed these areas, with speeds reaching
50-60 km/h, gusting to 70 km/h. Between 1 pm and 2 pm, extremely heavy rainfall is expected.
Many places will brace for scattered heavy to very heavy rainfall,” he added.
Six relief camps have been set up in Tiruvarur and Nagapattinam districts, providing refuge to 471 individuals from 164 families.
The Indian Navy has activated a comprehensive disaster response plan,
readied to provide support.
Recent reports from the union territory state the following
The Navy is involved. It has activated a subset.
in case of an emergency
###
**Here’s what you need to know:**
*
Chennai Airport has suspended flight operations until Sunday, December 1st at 4 am.
*
A red alert has been issued due to the likelihood of heavy to extremely heavy
rainfall.
* Coastal districts in
Boop
## Interview: Cyclone Fungal’s Impact on Tamil Nadu
**Host:** Joining us now is Dr. Priya Kumar, a leading meteorologist from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras. Welcome to the show, Dr. Kumar.
**Dr. Kumar:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Cyclone Fengal has made landfall near Mahabalipuram this morning. Can you tell us what we know so far about the cyclone and its potential impact?
**Dr. Kumar:** Absolutely. Cyclone Fengal crossed the Tamil Nadu coast early this morning between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram. As expected, it weakened into a deep depression after making landfall. However, we are expecting heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours in [Citation: 1]
the affecteeded areas, especially along the Tamil Nadu coast.
**Host:** This storm prompted some preemptive measures, including the closure of Chennai Airport. What other actions are being taken to mitigate the impact of the cyclone?
**Dr. Kumar:** Correct. The Chennai Airport temporarily suspended operations as a precautionary measure. [Citation: 1] Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin called an emergency meeting to assess the situation and ensure preparedness. In addition, schools and colleges in Puducherry and several districts in Tamil Nadu have been closed.
**Host:** What would you say are the biggest concerns going forward?
**Dr. Kumar:** Heavy rain is always a concern, as it can lead to flooding and landslides. This storm arrives with oversaturated soil from recent rainfall, adding to the risk. Coastal areas are also vulnerable to strong winds and storm surges.
**Host:** What advice do you have for residents in the affected areas?
**Dr. Kumar:** People should stay informed about weather updates and heed the instructions of local authorities. It’s crucial to avoid venturing into low-lying areas or near the coastline.
**Host:** Dr. Kumar, thank you for sharing your expertise with us today. We wish everyone in the affected areas safety as they navigate this challenging weather event.
