Fengal hits Puducherry, heads to Kerala.
Cyclone Fengal Weakens, Heads Towards Kerala and Karnataka Coasts
Cyclone Fengal, which brought heavy rainfall and disruptions to Puducherry, is now expected to weaken as it moves towards the Kerala and Karnataka coasts. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the storm will gradually reduce in intensity and is likely to reach the coasts as a low-pressure area around December 3.
While the cyclone’s intensity has diminished, it may still bring moderate to heavy rainfall to parts of Kerala and Karnataka. Coastal areas are advised to remain alert, as the weakened system could cause localized flooding and disruptions in low-lying regions.
Authorities in both states have issued precautionary advisories, urging fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea and asking residents to remain cautious. Disaster management teams have been placed on standby to handle any emergencies that may arise as the remnants of Cyclone Fengal make landfall in the coming days.
Cyclone Fengal Weakens After Landfall, Puducherry Sees Record Rainfall
Cyclone Fengal, which made landfall near Puducherry on Saturday, weakened on Sunday but left behind a trail of destruction. The union territory experienced torrential rains, marking the highest rainfall in the region in three decades. The downpour caused widespread flooding, prompting the deployment of the Indian Army and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) for rescue and relief operations.
Under the cyclone’s influence, several areas in Puducherry were submerged, leaving residents stranded in their homes and on flooded streets. In response, the NDRF quickly launched extensive rescue efforts. Equipped with inflatable boats and other necessary gear, NDRF personnel navigated through waterlogged streets to evacuate people from flood-hit neighborhoods. Their swift action helped move hundreds of residents to safer locations.
Army Mobilized for Rescue Operations
The Indian Army also played a critical role in the rescue mission, particularly in Chennai, which faced significant flooding in low-lying areas. Army battalions were mobilized in the city, working tirelessly to assist those trapped by rising waters. In just two hours, Army personnel successfully rescued around 100 people from waterlogged areas, showcasing their efficiency and preparedness in handling disaster situations.
Authorities reported that the flooding had disrupted daily life, with several roads and bridges rendered impassable. Public transportation services were suspended in many areas, and power outages were reported in several neighborhoods due to waterlogging and damage to infrastructure. Schools and colleges in the region were closed as a precautionary measure, with officials urging residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
Relief Efforts Underway
The Puducherry government, in coordination with central authorities, has set up temporary shelters for those displaced by the flooding. Medical teams have also been dispatched to provide emergency healthcare to affected residents. Additionally, food and water supplies are being distributed in flood-affected areas to ensure basic necessities are available to those in need.
Meanwhile, weather agencies have forecasted that Cyclone Fengal will continue to weaken as it moves towards the Kerala and Karnataka coasts. Although the storm’s intensity has diminished, moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in parts of these states over the next few days. Authorities in Kerala and Karnataka have issued advisories, urging residents to remain cautious and fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea until conditions improve.