Cyclone Ditwah nears; flights, trains halted amid red alerts.
Cyclone Ditwah strengthens in the Bay, prompting IMD alerts as Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra brace for disruptions.
The deep depression brewing over the Bay of Bengal has now intensified into Cyclonic Storm Ditwah, setting off a wave of alerts, preparations, and growing concern across India’s southeastern coastline. As the system strengthens and inches closer, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and parts of Andhra Pradesh are preparing for what could be a challenging 48 hours. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for several states, urging residents and authorities to brace for heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread disruption.
According to IMD’s latest update, the storm has been moving steadily. Over the past six hours alone, it travelled north-northwest at a speed of 7 kmph. As of 11:30 pm IST on November 28, 2025, Cyclone Ditwah was positioned near latitude 9.0°N and longitude 80.8°E, placing it about 70 km northwest of Trincomalee in Sri Lanka and 170 km northwest of Batticaloa. On the Indian side, the system sits roughly 240 km south-southeast of Karaikal, 350 km south-southeast of Puducherry, and 450 km south of Chennai—distances that make its impending landfall feel increasingly real for those living along the coast.
The cyclone is expected to make landfall in the early hours of November 30, bringing with it intense rainfall and turbulent weather conditions. The IMD has warned of extremely heavy rainfall, especially over coastal Tamil Nadu, until the early hours of the 30th. Its latest bulletin adds further detail: isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely over Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema from November 29 to December 1, with the possibility of isolated extremely heavy falls on November 30 in south Coastal Andhra Pradesh and parts of coastal Rayalaseema.
These warnings are not just technical advisories—they are reminders of the power the sea can unleash during this season. For residents of Chennai, Puducherry, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, and other vulnerable districts, the buildup to landfall brings anxiety mixed with weary familiarity. Many have already begun preparing by stocking essentials, securing loose items around their homes, and keeping an eye on updates from local authorities.
The adverse weather has already begun disrupting daily life. At Chennai International Airport, several flights scheduled for November 29 have been cancelled due to deteriorating conditions. Airports, railway stations, and bus stands across the region are witnessing confused and worried travellers dealing with last-minute changes. Airlines, including IndiGo, have warned of potential delays and cancellations in the coming days.
For coastal communities, especially fishermen, the storm represents a serious threat. Authorities have advised fishermen not to venture into the sea, which is expected to turn extremely rough as the cyclone approaches. Many boats have already been docked or pulled ashore to avoid damage. Disaster response teams in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have been placed on alert, with evacuation plans ready should waterlogging or flooding worsen.
Residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas are being cautioned to remain indoors, stay away from coastal stretches, and avoid unnecessary travel. Power cuts—which often accompany cyclonic weather—are likely in multiple locations as precautionary shutdowns are implemented to prevent accidents.
Beyond the immediate risks, storms like Ditwah bring longer-term challenges. Heavy rainfall can lead to swollen rivers, damaged roads, fallen trees, and disruptions to essential services. Schools and colleges in high-risk districts are expected to remain closed on and around the landfall day. Emergency teams may need to clear debris, restore power lines, and assist families affected by waterlogging.
The atmosphere across the southeastern coast is one of watchfulness. Communities have lived through many such storms, but each one carries its own uncertainty. As Cyclone Ditwah approaches, families are checking weather updates, charging devices, filling water containers, and keeping emergency supplies ready. Authorities continue to stress that preparedness is key—and that following official instructions could make a vital difference.
With landfall imminent, all eyes are on the sky and the sea. The next few hours will determine how severe the cyclone’s impact will be, and how quickly affected regions can return to normalcy once it passes. For now, caution, cooperation, and calm remain the guiding words as the eastern coast faces another powerful storm.