As Cyclone Fengal intensifies in the Bay of Bengal, Tamil Nadu is bracing for severe weather conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that the deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal is expected to strengthen into a full-fledged cyclone within hours, making landfall between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram on November 30. The storm is set to bring sustained winds of 50-60 kmph, gusting up to 70 kmph, alongside significant rainfall, with northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and nearby regions at the highest risk.
Local authorities have already mobilised resources in anticipation of the storm. Puducherry’s Chief Minister has set up relief camps and deployed disaster management teams to evacuate residents from low-lying areas. The union territory has recorded 7.5 cm of rainfall in the last 24 hours, while Karaikal received 9.5 cm. The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has issued a warning to fishing boats, advising them to return to harbour to avoid the storm’s dangers. The storm’s effects have already been felt, with flooding reported in coastal areas, adding to the growing concerns.
In addition to flooding risks, the cyclone threatens significant damage to agriculture. The Cauvery delta, a major rice-producing region, has already seen paddy crops across 2,000 acres affected by floodwaters. Extensive damage has also been reported in Nagapattinam and Villupuram, where salt pans have been submerged. The looming storm highlights the vulnerability of coastal agriculture to severe weather, with the situation exacerbated by climate change.
As the storm nears, the impact on daily life is becoming clear. Chennai has issued school closures, and flight disruptions are expected at key airports, including Chennai, Tuticorin, and Madurai. With the storm predicted to weaken after landfall, residents are still urged to remain cautious. As authorities prepare for the storm’s arrival, the threat of flooding and destruction of infrastructure remains a critical concern. This event underscores the urgency of addressing climate resilience in coastal regions, with proactive measures needed to safeguard vulnerable communities and industries.
