Cyclonic Storm Fengal: Tamil Nadu Braces for Impact
image credit : Hindustan times
Cyclonic Storm Fengal, a strong weather system, is predicted to land close to Puducherry on Saturday, November 30, between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram. Because of constant wind speeds of 70 to 80 km/h with gusts up to 90 km/h, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are preparing for hazardous storm surges, strong winds, and a lot of rain.
Formation and Path of Cyclonic Storm Fengal
Cyclonic Storm Fengal formed over the southern Bay of Bengal after several days of uncertainty and moved northwest at a speed of 15 km/h. As of the moment, the storm is roughly 250 km southeast of Chennai, 240 km east-northeast of Nagapattinam, and 230 km east-southeast of Puducherry. Advanced satellites like INSAT-3DR and EOS-06 have helped the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) keep an eye on the system.
Red Alert and Warnings
With rainfall expected to exceed twenty cm on Saturday, the IMD has issued a red alert for seven districts, including Chennai, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Puducherry. Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai are among the other areas under an orange alert. High waves (3.1–4.6 meters) and an anticipated storm surge of up to 1 meter above astronomical tide are warnings for coastal areas, exposing low-lying areas.
Safety Measures for Coastal Communities
The Bay of Bengal, Gulf of Mannar, and neighbouring coastal areas are expected to see rough seas, thus fishermen have been urged to suspend activities until November 30. People who live in places that are susceptible should secure unsecured items, stay away from needless travel, and heed official evacuation orders.
Advanced Satellite Monitoring Enhances Cyclone Tracking
Over the previous two days, changing air conditions have made it difficult to track Cyclonic Storm Fengal. However, the provision of real-time data on oceanic and atmospheric changes has been made possible by complex monitoring systems, such as ISRO’s geostationary satellite INSAT-3DR and polar-orbiting satellite EOS-06. With the help of these satellites, meteorologists have been able to precisely forecast the storm’s path and severity, enabling authorities to give warnings in a timely manner and take precautions. This technical development emphasises how important space-based surveillance is to reducing the effects of natural disasters.
Weather Conditions and Impact
The storm has already caused temperatures in Tamil Nadu to drop considerably; in Chennai, the high was only 24.5°C, which is 5.3°C colder than normal. As Fengal moves inland, heavy precipitation is expected to persist until the weekend, despite Friday’s light rainfall.A reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather systems and the value of readiness is provided by Cyclonic Storm Fengal. To reduce dangers, residents are encouraged to follow official updates and follow safety guidelines.
