Cyclone Ditwah Intensifies, Triggers Regional Alert
The severe cyclonic storm, Ditwah, is maintaining its course towards the coastal regions of north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, leading to a massive and coordinated mobilization of emergency response measures across the area. Authorities have ramped up preparations, which include enhanced relief arrangements, the cancellation of multiple flights, and the declaration of precautionary holidays for schools and colleges.
IMD Track and Projected Path
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclonic system has been moving in a north-northwesterly direction. As of 5:30 AM IST on November 29, 2025, Cyclone Ditwah was positioned over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining northern Sri Lanka, near latitude 9.4°N and longitude 80.7°E. It was located approximately 80 km east-southeast of Jaffna in Sri Lanka and about 190 km south-southeast of Karaikal in India.
The storm continued its trajectory, and by 5:30 AM IST on November 30, 2025, it had shifted nearly northwards. Its center was then near latitude 11.1°N and longitude 80.6°E, placing it about 90 km east-northeast of Karaikal and 130 km southeast of Puducherry. The IMD forecasts that the cyclone will continue to move nearly northwards, parallel to the coastlines of North Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Crucially, it is predicted to pass within a very close range, coming within 70 km of the coast by noon and 30 km by the evening of November 30.
Disruptions and Precautionary Measures
The approach of the cyclone has already caused significant disruption. Coastal wind speeds are currently recorded between 50 and 60 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 70 kmph. The IMD has warned that these winds are likely to intensify to 70-80 kmph, gusting to 90 kmph, from the morning of Saturday, November 30, through to Sunday morning. Sea conditions, already rough, are expected to become very rough to high.
In response to forecasts of intense rainfall and powerful winds, Chennai Airport has cancelled several flights. Furthermore, heavy rainfall warnings have prompted district administrations in Perambalur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Cuddalore, Kallakurichi, Pudukottai, Puducherry, and Karaikal to declare holidays for all educational institutions.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has personally reviewed the situation and has instructed officials to coordinate with the Indian Embassy in Colombo concerning stranded passengers. District authorities are strongly urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from waterlogged areas. A strict advisory has been issued to fishermen, warning them not to venture into the sea due to the hazardous conditions of rough waves and high winds.
Weather Warnings and Public Advisory
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has issued alerts for very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across several districts in Tamil Nadu. The coastal stretches of south Andhra Pradesh are also under a cyclone watch. Residents in the affected regions are urged to stay indoors, avoid coastal areas, and strictly follow updates from official sources. The public has also been advised to refrain from circulating unverified information that could cause panic.
