Chennai: Cyclonic storm Fengal, currently positioned approximately 100 km east-northeast of Puducherry and southeast of Chennai, is inching closer to the Tamil Nadu coastline. The storm is expected to make landfall between Marakkanam and Mahabalipuram near Puducherry late tonight (November 30, 2024) or in the early hours of December 1, with wind speeds reaching up to 90 km/h.

Heavy rains and gusty winds have lashed Chennai, northern Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry, causing widespread disruptions, including waterlogging, transport suspensions, and damage to infrastructure.

Key Weather Developments
Rainfall and Wind Impact: Chennai and its surrounding areas have experienced intense rainfall, with locations like Meenambakkam and Kolapakkam recording over 10 cm since Saturday morning. Persistent rain and winds have uprooted trees and caused localized flooding. Interior Tamil Nadu is likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall on December 1, with further isolated rainfall predicted on December 2 and 3.

IMD Alerts: A red alert remains in effect for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore, and Puducherry. An orange alert has been issued for several other districts, including Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, and Nagapattinam.

Disruptions in Normal Life
Chennai: Over 134 locations reported waterlogging, and seven major subways were closed. MRTS suburban train services have been suspended, while other suburban sections operate with reduced frequency. Express train services face delays but remain operational. Public transport on ECR and OMR has been suspended.

Air Travel: Chennai Airport suspended operations from 12 PM to 7 PM due to strong crosswinds.

Government Response: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has reviewed the situation, confirming relief measures, including the setup of relief camps and distribution of essential supplies. Educational institutions were declared closed on November 30, and IT companies were urged to allow employees to work from home.

Essential Services: Milk supply and power services in many areas remained unaffected. The Chennai Metro Rail continues to operate, with public advisories on parking in flood-prone stations.

Forecast
The cyclone's remnants are expected to bring light to moderate rainfall across north coastal Andhra Pradesh, including Visakhapatnam. Interior regions of Tamil Nadu are likely to face significant rainfall over the coming days, prompting authorities to maintain high vigilance.