As Cyclone Fengal edges closer to the Tamil Nadu coast, life in the state has come to a standstill. The Chennai International Airport has temporarily suspended operations until 5 PM today as the cyclonic storm intensifies. Coastal districts are grappling with heavy rainfall, powerful winds, and high waves, leaving residents and authorities on high alert.
Chennai Airport Shuts Down
The decision to suspend airport operations came in light of the dangerous weather conditions, which include wind speeds exceeding 85 km/h. Over 70 flights, both domestic and international, have been delayed or canceled. Airlines such as IndiGo have issued advisories warning passengers of potential disruptions. This suspension highlights the severity of Cyclone Fengal’s impact on transportation and daily life in Tamil Nadu.
Coastal Communities Brace for Impact
Residents of low-lying and coastal areas have been evacuated to safer locations as heavy rains continue to batter regions such as Nagapattinam, Cuddalore, and Puducherry. Fishermen have been warned to stay ashore, and state authorities have declared holidays for schools and colleges across nine districts, including Chennai, Villupuram, and Tiruchirappalli.
Agricultural Losses and Urban Flooding
The agricultural sector has taken a significant hit, with standing paddy crops in the Cauvery delta region submerged under water. Urban areas are also witnessing severe flooding, with many localities in Chennai reporting waterlogging and power outages. Emergency teams have been deployed to provide relief and minimize damage.
IMD Forecast and Future Preparedness
According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Fengal is expected to intensify further as it moves north-northwestward along the Tamil Nadu coast. Heavy rainfall is likely to persist until December 1, with potential disruptions extending to parts of Andhra Pradesh. Authorities have set up control rooms, activated disaster response teams, and issued helpline numbers to assist affected residents.
As Tamil Nadu braces for more challenges in the coming days, the resilience of its people will be key to weathering the storm.
Source: This article has been taken from NewsMobile
Key Highlights
- Chennai International Airport operations suspended until 5 PM due to Cyclone Fengal.
- Coastal districts face heavy rainfall, evacuation efforts underway.
- Agricultural damage reported in Cauvery delta, urban flooding hits Chennai.
- Cyclone expected to intensify; heavy rains forecast until December 1.
