The India Meteorological Department has warned of the arrival of cyclone 'Fengal' on Saturday afternoon, close to the city of Puducherry, with wind speeds of up to 90 kmph. Heavy rainfall and gusty winds have already hit several parts of northern Tamil Nadu, causing water logging and affecting normalcy. Residents are taking precautions such as parking their vehicles in safe areas, while authorities have deployed workers and emergency personnel to vulnerable places. The city's transportation services have also been affected, with flight schedules being disrupted and limited public transport services.
Cyclone Fengal, currently located over the southwest Bay of Bengal, is expected to make landfall near Chennai tomorrow evening. The India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for the coastal areas of North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the adjoining south Andhra Pradesh. With heavy rains and gusty winds predicted, the Tamil Nadu government has declared a holiday for schools and colleges in four districts. The Visakhapatnam Cyclone Warning Centre has also issued an extremely heavy rainfall warning for three districts in Andhra Pradesh. Residents have been advised to take precautions and authorities are preparing for the impact of the cyclone.
As Cyclone Fengal makes its way towards the coastal districts of Tamil Nadu, the India Meteorological Department has issued warnings for the region. Expected to hit the coast by Saturday evening, the cyclone has already caused changes in weather, with high tides and heavy rainfall. The IMD reports that it will cross the region between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, bringing wind speeds of 70-80 km/h, posing a danger to the affected areas.