Cyclone Fengal LIVE Updates: Chennai Airport Cancels Flights, Tamil Nadu Braces for Impact

Updated: 30 November 2024, 12:35 PM IST

Cyclone Fengal LIVE Updates: Tamil Nadu is on high alert as Cyclone Fengal approaches its coastline, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread disruptions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for multiple southern states, with the cyclone expected to make landfall near Puducherry today evening.

Flight Operations Hit at Chennai Airport

#UPDATE | Passengers be informed that flights to and from the following destinations have been cancelled. We recommend passengers check with their respective airlines for real-time updates.#ChennaiAirport #TravelAdvisory #PassengerAdvisory #ChennaiRains #CycloneFengal #Chennai… pic.twitter.com/UyIUWDI7XT

— Chennai (MAA) Airport (@aaichnairport) November 30, 2024

The Chennai Airport has cancelled over 20 flights due to deteriorating weather conditions. IndiGo Airlines has temporarily suspended all arrivals and departures, announcing resumption only after the situation improves. Flights from Port Blair and Abu Dhabi to Chennai have been diverted to Bengaluru, further impacting passengers.

VIDEO | Andhra Pradesh: Devotees brave heavy rainfall to visit Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, #Tirupati.#CycloneFengal #CycloneAlert

(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/fcMjzpNZDF

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 30, 2024

Cyclone Fengal LIVE Updates: CM Stalin Reviews Precautionary Measures

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin held a high-level meeting to assess the state’s preparedness for Cyclone Fengal. The government has activated 2,229 relief camps, sheltered 471 people from 164 families, and ensured the return of over 4,153 fishing boats to the shore.

#WATCH | Chennai: Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin reviews the arrangements and precautionary measures taken by the state government in the wake of #CycloneFengal

(Source: DIPR) pic.twitter.com/6zILlSzmUJ

— ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2024

Red Alert and Heavy Rainfall Warnings

According to IMD’s latest bulletin, the cyclone, currently over the southwest Bay of Bengal, is moving at 7 km/h. It is expected to cross between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram with wind speeds of 70-80 km/h, gusting up to 90 km/h. Heavy to extremely heavy rains are forecasted in Tamil Nadu, South Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and interior Karnataka.

Flood Preparations in Chennai

Residents in flood-prone areas of Chennai, including Velachery, are parking vehicles on elevated flyovers to avoid damage from flash floods. The Chennai Metro has implemented strict measures to prevent waterlogging, while suburban train services have been reduced.

Impact on Coastal Areas

Beaches along Tamil Nadu’s coast, including Marina Beach and Mahabalipuram, remain deserted with rough seas and high tides. In Puducherry, SSP Kalaivanan has inspected coastal roads and beaches, urging residents to stay indoors. The administration has sent SMS alerts to over 12 lakh residents, warning them of the cyclone’s potential impact.

Schools and Colleges Closed

District administrations in Kanchipuram and other affected regions have declared holidays for schools and colleges. Authorities are urging people to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.

Live Updates from Affected Areas

• Tirupati Temple: Devotees continue to visit despite heavy rains.
• Kasimedu Fishing Harbour: Boats remain docked as fishermen heed IMD warnings.
• Puttalam District: Reports of partial flooding as Cyclone Fengal approaches.

Precautionary Advice

The IMD has advised residents in coastal and low-lying areas to remain vigilant and stay indoors. Fishermen are strictly prohibited from venturing into the sea, and emergency services are on standby to tackle any untoward incidents.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on Cyclone Fengal as Tamil Nadu and neighboring states brace for its landfall.