Cyclone Fengal Nears Tamil Nadu, Triggers Heavy Rains and School Closures

Cyclone Fengal continues to intensify as it approaches the Tamil Nadu coast, bringing heavy rainfall and prompting widespread closures of schools and colleges in affected districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued yellow and orange alerts for multiple regions, warning of potential flash floods and crop damage.

Cyclone Updates

The deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal has strengthened into Cyclone Fengal, with sustained winds of 13 km/h. As of Wednesday morning, the system was centered 470 km southeast of Nagapattinam and 670 km south-southeast of Chennai. The IMD predicts the storm will continue moving north-northwestward and intensify further, skirting the Sri Lankan coast before making landfall near Tamil Nadu.

Rainfall and Flash Flood Warnings

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected across Tamil Nadu, with isolated regions experiencing extremely heavy downpours. Districts like Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu are forecasted to bear the brunt. Flash flood warnings have been issued for Madurai, Perambalur, Salem, Teni, Virudhunagar, Karaikal, and Puducherry. Farmers in the Cauvery delta region report extensive damage, with an estimated 2,000 acres of paddy submerged.

School Closures and Travel Disruptions

District administrations in Chennai, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, Tiruchirappalli, and other regions have declared holidays for schools and colleges to ensure public safety.

IndiGo Airlines has issued a travel advisory for passengers traveling to and from Chennai, Tuticorin, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, and Salem, warning of potential disruptions due to adverse weather.

Government and Relief Measures

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin convened a high-level meeting to review preparedness and deploy relief teams. A total of 17 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and state disaster response teams have been stationed across vulnerable districts.

In Chennai, heavy rains and strong winds have battered areas like Pattinapakkam beach, where authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Fishermen have been advised against venturing into the sea until further notice.

IMD’s Forecast

The IMD has confirmed that the system will continue to evolve over the next 24–48 hours. A continuous watch is being maintained on the cyclone’s path and intensity.

Residents in affected areas are advised to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow updates from official channels as the situation develops.