Last night, meteorologists recorded rare thermal activity in the Bay of Bengal, which helped in the intensity of the cyclonic storm. Wind motion and heating zones had been recorded by ISRO’s EOS-06 satellite, and it is said that because of it, the storm grew rapidly. Coastal residents have reported abnormally high tides as the state disaster management team has been pressed into action to deal with emergencies.
The early signs of Cyclone Fengal’s devastation are already evident, with Nagapattinam’s 800 acres of paddy fields in Nagapattinam submerged. Several roads in the area are already submerged, hampering mobility for emergency response teams. Cuddalore fishermen, meanwhile, have described waves taller than they have seen in decades, which raises concerns about possible storm surges.
In Chennai, preparations have ramped up with the closure of the international airport. Chennai Airport has been shut down for safety reasons, and all incoming and outgoing flights have been canceled until further notice. The storm’s expected path may lead to significant disruptions in transportation and infrastructure across Tamil Nadu.
As preparations for the impact intensify, local authorities are rather cautious. Relief camps are being set up in vulnerable districts, and the Eastern Naval Command has dispatched food, water, and medical supplies. Power supply in high-risk areas has been cut off to prevent electrical hazards, while schools and colleges in the region remain closed.
This cyclone has hit marine ecosystems hard, displacing aquatic species and damaging coral reefs. Marine biologists are measuring the level of biodiversity damage along the Tamil Nadu beaches. However, several fishermen and dock workers were safely rescued from the vicinity of Cuddalore, which was at risk, with the help of the Indian Coast Guard.
Residents are advised to stay indoors, watching out for breakdowns because of impending danger from Cyclone Fengal whipping down with its full force. The situation remains fluid, with further information expected as the storm approaches the coast.
