Cyclonic storm Fengal Impact on Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

Cyclonic storm Fengal, which formed in the Bay of Bengal, is currently affecting Tamil Nadu and its surrounding areas due to heavy rains and strong winds. The storm turned into a cyclonic storm after becoming a deep depression on November 27, 2024 and is now slowly moving towards the Tamil Nadu coast,

Origin and Status of The Cyclone

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone began forming on November 27 in the southwestern part of the Bay of Bengal It is slowly moving in a northwest direction. Its strong wind speed is reaching 45-55 km/h, which can sometimes increase up to 65 km/h.

Several coastal districts of Tamil Nadu including Chennai, Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, and Tiruvallur have been affected by the impact of the storm. It is being predicted that the rains may continue till December 1.

Impact and Damage

• Heavy Rains
• Heavy rains are ruining crops in the Cauvery delta region of Tamil Nadu. Standing paddy crops in the fields have been submerged, causing farmers to face major losses.
• Strong winds and sea impact
• The lives of fishermen have been badly affected due to strong winds in coastal areas. Fishing has been banned as the sea is dangerous.

Impact on Educational Institutions

The state government has ordered the closure of schools and colleges in Chennai, Cuddalore, Thanjavur and several other districts as a precautionary measure. Educational institutions are also closed in Puducherry.

Government Preparations and Measures

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin called a high-level meeting in view of the gravity of the situation and directed all district collectors to expedite relief work. Relief camps have been set up, emergency medical teams and rescue personnel have been deployed. The state government has sent 17 teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to the affected districts.

Precautions

• Instructions for fishermen
• Fishermen have been prohibited from venturing into the sea. The government has advised all fishing boats to stay on the coast.
• Instructions for the general public
• The administration has requested the general public to stay indoors and avoid beaches, amusement parks and open spaces.
• Local community and challenges
• The biggest challenge for the locals is floods and power cuts. Incidents of falling trees and damage to houses are increasing in coastal areas.

Conclusion

Cyclone Fengal has affected life in the coastal areas of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Due to the preparedness of the administration and the alertness of the public, efforts are being made to minimize the damage. This cyclone is a reminder that the frequency and severity of such incidents is increasing due to climate change, and we have to prepare better for it.

All citizens are advised to follow the instructions of the Meteorological Department and the local administration and stay safe.