Vishakapatnam (Andhra Pradesh): Cyclone Fengal has left a trail of destruction as it made landfall on the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry late on Saturday night. The storm has caused severe flooding in several districts of Tamil Nadu, including Cuddalore, while heavy rainfall is forecasted for coastal and Rayalaseema regions of Andhra Pradesh in the coming days.
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Landfall and Initial Impact
Cyclone Fengal made landfall between 10:30 pm and 11:30 pm on November 30, with wind speeds ranging from 70-80 km/h, gusting up to 90 km/h. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the cyclone remained stationary for six hours near Puducherry, approximately 30 km north of Cuddalore and 40 km east of Viluppuram.
In Tamil Nadu, incessant rain has resulted in widespread flooding in the Cuddalore district, forcing disaster management teams into action. The Tamil Nadu Disaster Rescue Team used JCB machines to clear fallen trees, while rescue operations in Chinna Gangankuppam and other flood-hit areas continue. Boats are being used to evacuate residents stranded in submerged areas.
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Heavy Rainfall Expected in Andhra Pradesh
As Cyclone Fengal progresses westward, the IMD has warned of heavy rainfall in Andhra Pradesh.
Yellow Alert Issued: The IMD has issued a yellow alert for districts including Kakinada, Konaseema, Nellore, Tirupati, Annamayya, Srisathyasai, and Chittoor.
Rainfall Predictions: KVS Srinivas, Managing Director of the Cyclone Warning Centre in Visakhapatnam, stated, “Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema over the next 24 hours.”
Some areas in Rayalaseema have already recorded significant rainfall. Srinivas added that regions like Kakinada in north coastal Andhra Pradesh and Nellore in the south are expected to see continuous heavy rains.
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Flooding and Rescue Operations in Tamil Nadu
Floodwaters have engulfed residential areas in Tamil Nadu, particularly in the Cuddalore district. Local disaster response teams, along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Indian Army personnel, are engaged in extensive rescue missions.
Army Assistance: Troops from the Chennai Garrison Battalion have been mobilized to assist with evacuations and clearing blocked roads.
Major Challenges: Waterlogging, fallen trees, and power outages continue to hamper relief efforts in flood-hit regions.
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Cyclone’s Current Status
Cyclone Fengal has shown slow movement, remaining stationary for six hours after landfall. It is now moving westward, albeit very slowly. The IMD has predicted that the storm’s impact will linger for the next 24-48 hours in Andhra Pradesh, with moderate rainfall expected in many areas.
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Key Takeaways
Tamil Nadu: Severe flooding in Cuddalore, disaster response underway.
Andhra Pradesh: Heavy rainfall expected in coastal and Rayalaseema regions.
IMD Alerts: Yellow alert for multiple districts, urging residents to remain vigilant.
As the situation unfolds, authorities urge residents in vulnerable areas to stay safe and cooperate with rescue teams. Stay tuned for updates on Cyclone Fengal’s impact and relief measures.