Cyclone Warning Issued For Tamil Nadu And Puducherry As Storm Likely To Intensify

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded an urgent warning for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry as a deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal moves north-northwestwards. The system, currently located near Sri Lanka, is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm within hours, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to coastal regions. The storm, once intensified, will be named Cyclone Ditwah, as proposed by Yemen.  

Key highlights from the announcement include  

• The deep depression is centered about 120 km south-southeast of Batticaloa, Sri Lanka, 130 km east-northeast of Hambantota, Sri Lanka, 640 km south-southeast of Puducherry, and 730 km south-southeast of Chennai.  
• IMD forecasts the system will intensify into a cyclonic storm within the next three hours.  
• The cyclone is expected to move north-northwestwards across the Bay of Bengal, heading toward the Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coasts.  
• Yellow and orange alerts have been issued for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and parts of Andhra Pradesh.  
• Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in coastal districts, with wind speeds reaching 60–70 kmph.  
• Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea due to rough to very rough conditions.  
• Authorities are preparing for potential flooding, power disruptions, and damage to crops in affected areas.  
• The IMD has warned of widespread rainfall in southern states over the coming days.  
• Emergency response teams are on standby, and state governments are coordinating relief measures.  

The warning underscores the vulnerability of coastal regions during the northeast monsoon season. With the cyclone expected to intensify rapidly, preparedness and timely action will be critical to minimizing damage. Residents in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry have been urged to stay alert and follow official advisories.  

Sources: Indian Express, NDTV Profit, Business Standard, IMD Official Website, ABP Live, Economic Times