Cyclone Fengal to make landfall today afternoon, red alert issued across Tamil Nadu
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Cyclone Fengal, pronounced "Feinjal," is set to make landfall this afternoon, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to several districts in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that the storm will cross the Tamil Nadu coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, with wind speeds of 70-80 kmph, gusting up to 90 kmph.
The storm, currently located over the Bay of Bengal at latitude 11.8°N and longitude 81.7°E, is approximately 210 km southeast of Chennai.
According to IMD’s latest update, it is moving west-northwest and will impact multiple districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Kallakurichi, and Cuddalore. Coastal areas are likely to bear the brunt of the storm, with wind speeds expected to reach up to 70 kmph, and intermittent heavy to very heavy rainfall predicted over the next 18-24 hours.
A red alert has been issued in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Viluppuram, Kallakurichi, and Cuddalore districts, as well as in Puducherry. An orange alert is in place for other regions, including Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Karaikal.
Dr. S. Balachandran, Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai, highlighted that coastal districts will experience the most significant impact. "The crossing point is between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram near Puducherry. Coastal districts will face high winds and intense rainfall," he stated, adding that some areas could see extremely heavy rain this afternoon.
Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. The IMD has warned of potential disruptions in daily activities due to flooding, fallen trees, and strong winds.
