Cyclone Fengal Nears Puducherry: Authorities Urge Caution as Heavy Rains Lash Tamil Nadu

Cyclone Fengal approaches Puducherry, bringing heavy rain and high winds to Tamil Nadu and surrounding states. Authorities issued red alerts, closed schools, and activated relief camps. Disaster response teams are deployed, and fishermen have been warned to avoid the sea. Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to stay indoors and follow safety guidelines.

As Cyclone Fengal approaches, authorities in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are on high alert. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted wind speeds of 70-90 kmph and heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, with landfall expected near Puducherry on Saturday afternoon.

Puducherry district officials have closed all schools and colleges, urging residents to stay indoors. Emergency helplines, including toll-free numbers 112 and 1077, have been activated. In Tamil Nadu, 2,229 relief camps are ready to shelter evacuees, and 471 people from 164 families have already been relocated in Nagapattinam and Tiruvarur districts.

Disaster response teams, including National and State Disaster Response Forces, are deployed in vulnerable areas like Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Chennai. Coastal residents and fishermen have been warned to stay away from the sea.

In Chennai, heavy rainfall caused waterlogging, disrupting road and air travel. Chennai Metro Rail remains operational, with safety measures in place. Beaches, including Marina, have been cordoned off due to rough seas.

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IMD has issued a red alert for Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka. Cyclone Fengal is expected to bring widespread rainfall, with southern states on high alert until December 1. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have urged residents in low-lying areas to stay vigilant.