Cyclonic Storm Fengal made landfall near Puducherry on Sunday morning, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to the area. According to the India Meteorological Department, the storm has now weakened into a deep depression but is still expected to move west-southwestwards. Residents in the affected areas have been urged to take necessary precautions and follow instructions from local authorities.
Cyclone Fengal: Impacts, Aftermath, and Historical Perspective
Background
Cyclonic storms are intense low-pressure systems that form over warm ocean waters, characterized by strong winds, torrential rainfall, and storm surges. India's east coast is particularly vulnerable to these tropical cyclones, facing a high frequency of such events during the monsoon season (May to December).
Cyclone Fengal
Cyclone Fengal, a deep depression, made landfall near Puducherry on Sunday morning, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to the coastal region. The India Meteorological Department has downgraded the storm to a deep depression, but it is still expected to weaken further as it moves west-southwestwards.
Impacts
Cyclone Fengal brought widespread rainfall and gusty winds to coastal areas of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry. Heavy rainfall led to flooding in low-lying areas, disrupting transportation and daily life. Strong winds caused damage to structures, uprooted trees, and disrupted power lines.
Aftermath
Local authorities are assessing the extent of damage caused by Cyclone Fengal. Relief and rescue operations are underway, with teams deployed to evacuate residents from affected areas. The government has also announced financial assistance for those who have suffered losses due to the storm.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What was the path of Cyclone Fengal?
Cyclone Fengal moved west-southwestwards, making landfall near Puducherry and then weakening into a deep depression. It is expected to continue moving in a similar direction, gradually weakening.
2. What are the safety measures to take during a cyclone?
During a cyclone, residents should stay indoors in sturdy buildings away from windows. They should also avoid going near the coast or flooded areas. Listen to local authorities for updates and evacuation orders.
3. What are the historical impacts of cyclones in India?
India has a long history of devastating cyclones, including:
4. How can we prepare for future cyclones?
Preparing for cyclones involves measures such as:
5. What are the ongoing efforts to mitigate cyclone impacts?
The Indian government and various organizations are implementing programs to reduce the vulnerability of coastal communities to cyclones. These efforts include:
On day 1,312 of Russia's war on Ukraine, tensions continue to escalate as Ukrainian drones target a Russian oil pumping station, Russian forces seize three more villages in eastern Ukraine, and NATO increases its presence in the Baltic Sea region. In response to the ongoing conflict, the Ukrainian security service reports that the SBU caused a fire and halted operations in the Chuvashia region, while Russia's military announced its continued advance in Donetsk and Dnipro. Meanwhile, NATO's decision to deploy additional military assets comes after several days of unidentified drone sightings in Denmark and at military bases.
The upcoming India-Australia ODI series has drawn attention for multiple reasons, including the successful return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as white-ball players. Despite being relieved of captaincy, the duo is expected to continue playing in the format until the 2027 World Cup, according to Australia's Travis Head and India's Axar Patel. As both teams gear up for a high-stakes clash, the focus remains on the future of these two icons and their potential to lead India to another ODI World Cup victory.
Pakistani security forces have thwarted a suicide attack targeting their camp in Mir Ali, North Waziristan, after a vehicle loaded with explosives was driven into the perimeter wall. In a separate operation, 34 militants described as "India-backed terrorists" were killed in multiple engagements across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. These operations form part of Pakistan's continued efforts to eliminate foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country under the vision "Azm-e-Istehkam."
Amid an intensified wave of militant activity in Pakistan's northwestern tribal belt bordering Afghanistan, security forces successfully foiled a major suicide attack on a military camp in North Waziristan's Mir Ali area. Four terrorists, including a suicide bomber, were killed in the exchange, with no casualties among security personnel. The incident highlights the ongoing threat of militant activity in the region, with recent counterterrorism operations resulting in the death of 88 militants, including several from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Former US President Donald Trump shared news on his social media platform about a “very productive” phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where they discussed progress towards ending the Russia-Ukraine war. Trump mentioned the possibility of a summit in Budapest involving top advisors from both countries, while also revealing that he will be meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the call and other matters. As India’s economy continues to grow, its luxury market is also thriving with high-end brands investing in the country to meet the increased demand.
Ukrainian President Zelensky is currently in Washington to meet with US President Trump. This meeting comes after Trump had a productive phone call with Russian President Putin, where they agreed to face-to-face talks in Hungary. Trump is considering arming Ukraine with advanced Tomahawk missiles, but stated that the US stockpile must also be preserved. Meanwhile, Trump has promised to update Zelensky on his discussions with Putin and believes that progress has been made.
The Ministry of External Affairs has denied that a phone conversation took place between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, contradicting Trump's claim that Modi personally assured him that India would stop purchasing Russian crude oil. Trump had announced this move as a big step, describing that the process had already begun. However, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified that there was no discussion between the two leaders during a weekly briefing. This contradiction comes after the last confirmed phone call between the two on 9 October, when they discussed trade negotiations.
President Donald Trump announces plans to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hungary, following a productive phone call between the two leaders. The talks will include high-level advisers from both sides, led by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, there is little indication of progress in ending the war in Ukraine, and Trump is likely to face pressure from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during his visit to Washington, D.C. for the US to provide military support to Ukraine.
US and Russian Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin have had their first conversation since August, with plans to meet in person in Hungary. They discussed trade and teams from both countries will meet next week. This came a day before Ukraine's President Zelensky's visit to the White House and amid discussions about arming Ukraine with deep-striking Tomahawk missiles. Despite the talks, Ukraine's ambassador to the US says Moscow's recent actions show their real attitude towards peace and call for tougher responses such as sanctions and military reinforcement.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has announced plans for a new anti-drone system in response to ongoing fears of Russian aggression. The proposed "defence roadmap" includes measures such as improving Eastern borders and creating air and space shields. With several European countries facing airspace incursions, the EU is taking steps to be fully prepared for possible conflict by 2030. The announcement comes ahead of talks between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with Trump indicating that the US could provide Ukraine with long-range missiles if the war in Ukraine continues.