Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India]: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin conducted a review of the state’s preparations and precautionary measures ahead of Cyclone Fengal on Saturday. Accompanied by state ministers KN Nehru and KKSSR Ramachandran, the Chief Minister visited the Chennai State Operation Center to assess the situation.
CM Stalin also held a video conference with the District Collectors of Chennai, Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and other affected districts to discuss the potential impact on the ground. He assured that the state government was closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary precautionary actions.
In a media address, CM Stalin stated, “The MET department has issued warnings for continuous rainfall over the next two or three days. We are actively inspecting and preparing for the cyclone’s impact. The cyclonic storm is expected to make landfall tonight. The Chennai Corporation Commissioner has been in contact with the district officials to ensure relief work is ongoing, and relief camps have been set up for those in need.”
He further noted, “Heavy rainfall is expected tonight, and we are monitoring other districts as well. So far, no major incidents have been reported. Preventive measures have been taken in Chennai, particularly in areas prone to water accumulation. Any issues that arise will be addressed promptly.”
Chennai experienced persistent heavy rainfall from last night through this morning, leading to rough seas and strong winds. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Fengal, which was moving west-northwestward, is expected to make landfall on the north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts later today.
As per the IMD’s update, “At 05:30 hours IST, Cyclone Fengal was located near latitude 12.2°N and longitude 81.2°E, about 150 km east of Puducherry, 140 km southeast of Chennai, 210 km northeast of Nagappattinam, and 400 km north of Trincomalee.”