A deep depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, which was initially expected to strengthen into a cyclonic storm, is now predicted to gradually weaken into a depression as it nears the north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that the system will continue moving northwestward while maintaining its intensity as a deep depression until November 29, 2024. However, as it gets closer to the coast, it is expected to weaken further into a depression.
However, Chennai and neighbouring districts have also been issued red weather alerts on Saturday when the system crosses the TN coast.
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The depression is forecast to make landfall near Karaikal and Mahabalipuram, close to Puducherry, by the morning of November 30. Once it reaches land, it is expected to bring moderate winds, ranging from 45 to 55 km/h, with gusts of up to 65 km/h. Coastal areas are also likely to experience heavy rainfall, with the possibility of rough sea conditions.
Advisories issued for coastal residents and fishermen
Authorities have issued advisories urging fishermen and residents in coastal regions to remain cautious. Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, especially areas around Karaikal and Puducherry, should prepare for rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas as the depression approaches.
"The deep depression over Southwest Bay of Bengal moved north-northeastwards with a speed of 9 km/h during the past 6 hours and lay centred at 2330 hours IST of yesterday, November 28, 2024, over the same region near latitude 10.1°N and longitude 82.8°E, about 240 km northeast of Trincomalee, 330 km east-southeast of Nagappattinam, 390 km east-southeast of Puducherry and 430 km southeast of Chennai," said the IMD.
"It is very likely to move northwestwards and maintain its intensity of deep depression till 29th November. Continuing to move northwestwards, it is very likely to cross the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram close to Puducherry around the morning of November 30, 2024, as a depression with a wind speed of 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph. The system is being continuously monitored," said the weather department.
Fengal causes widespread damage in Tamil Nadu
Meanwhile, Cyclone Fengal has already caused massive damage in Tamil Nadu’s Nagapattinam district, with heavy rainfall submerging paddy crops in over 800 acres of land. Farmers in affected areas, including Kamashwaram, Virundhamavadi, and Pudupalli, are facing distress as their crops are completely submerged.
As Cyclone Fengal intensifies, the Indian Navy has activated a disaster response plan to assist in relief efforts. The Eastern Naval Command, in coordination with the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area, has implemented a comprehensive mechanism to handle the potential impacts of the cyclone. The Navy is focusing on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and search-and-rescue operations, with relief materials such as food, water, and medicines being distributed to vulnerable areas.
With the cyclone forecast to intensify over the next 48 hours, authorities are urging residents in low-lying and coastal areas to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding are expected in coastal regions, and people are advised to take necessary precautions.
Agency
Published: 29 Nov 2024, 09:52 am IST
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