The Delta regions of Tamil Nadu experienced significant rainfall activity as Cyclone Ditwah continued its predicted path across the Bay of Bengal toward the East Coast on Saturday. Meanwhile, Chennai remained under cloudy skies with intermittent showers reported in several areas.
Current Position and Movement
As of 5:30 am on Saturday, the weather system was positioned approximately 400 km south of Chennai, 300 km south-southwest of Puducherry, and 190 km from Karaikal. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone was moving northward at a speed of 8 kmph, expected to continue in a north-northwesterly direction beyond Sri Lanka.
The meteorological department predicts the system will cross the Bay of Bengal and reach the southwest Bay of Bengal, close to the north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts and adjacent south Andhra Pradesh coast, by the morning of 30 November.
Rainfall Distribution Across Districts
Nagapattinam district recorded the highest precipitation levels on Saturday. Kodiyakkarai received 2.5 cm of rainfall, followed by Vedaranyam with 1.9 cm and Velankanni with 1.3 cm. Both Ramanathapuram and Karaikal registered 1 cm of rainfall each.
The IMD has forecast light to moderate rain until 1 pm in isolated areas across multiple districts including:
- Cuddalore, Dindigul, Mayiladuthurai
- Madurai, Nagapattinam, Pudukkottai
- Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, Thiruvarur
- Chengalpattu, Chennai, Kancheepuram
- Thoothukkudi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari
- Tiruvallur and Viluppuram districts of Tamil Nadu
- Puducherry and Karaikal
Preparedness and Monitoring
Authorities are closely monitoring Cyclone Ditwah's progression as it approaches the coastal regions. The IMD's regular updates provide crucial information for residents and administration in potentially affected areas. The consistent movement pattern allows for adequate preparation time in vulnerable zones.
While Chennai experienced relatively milder weather conditions compared to the Delta regions, the city remains vigilant as the cyclone continues its north-northwesterly track across the Bay of Bengal.
