NEW DELHI: Cyclone Fengal, which made landfall near Puducherry on November 30, has significantly weakened but continues to leave a lasting impact on the region. Torrential rains, influenced by the storm, have led to the highest rainfall in three decades for the union territory, prompting the deployment of the Army and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to evacuate stranded residents from inundated areas.
In response to the heavy rainfall and potential flooding, authorities have declared all schools and colleges in Puducherry closed on Monday, December 2. The cyclone, now moving west and northwest, is expected to reach the Kerala-Karnataka coasts as a low-pressure area by December 3. Similar closures have been announced for educational institutions in Villupuram, Cuddalore, Vellore, and Ranipet districts of Tamil Nadu, where heavy rainfall is also anticipated.
Cyclone Fengal initially made landfall on the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts on November 30, causing widespread disruption. The storm has since weakened and is projected to continue moving west-northwestwards. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has stated that the remnants of Cyclone Fengal will gradually weaken into a well-marked low-pressure area over north interior Tamil Nadu by Monday morning. The low-pressure area is likely to emerge over the southeast and adjoining east central Arabian Sea, off the north Kerala-Karnataka coasts, around December 3.
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The deployment of the Army and NDRF has been crucial in rescuing residents from the most affected areas. Teams have been working tirelessly to ensure the safety of the population, providing relief and support where needed. The heavy rainfall and potential for further flooding have necessitated these extensive rescue operations.
With the storm’s remnants expected to bring continued rainfall to the coastal and Rayalaseema regions of Andhra Pradesh, authorities remain on high alert. Precautionary measures are being taken to mitigate the impact and ensure the safety of residents in the path of the weakening cyclone.
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Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and heed any warnings issued by local authorities. Community efforts to support those affected by the cyclone are ongoing, with relief camps and emergency services providing necessary assistance.
As Cyclone Fengal moves away and weakens, the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of torrential rains and flooding. The coordinated response by government agencies and community efforts plays a crucial role in managing this natural disaster and ensuring the safety of all residents.