Cyclone Ditwah Intensifies, Landfall Expected on November 30
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has escalated warnings, placing coastal districts of Tamil Nadu under a red alert as Cyclone Ditwah advances menacingly towards the Indian east coast. The storm, named by Yemen, is currently tracking a north-northwestward path over coastal Sri Lanka and the adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal.
Heavy Rainfall and Severe Weather Warnings
The meteorological office has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall, measuring between 64 mm and 204 mm within 24 hours, over northern Tamil Nadu until December 1. The situation is expected to peak on November 29 and 30, with the likelihood of extremely heavy downpours exceeding 204 mm in a day.
In its latest bulletin, the IMD confirmed that the cyclonic system, which developed in the southwest Bay of Bengal, has strengthened and is projected to make landfall in the early hours of Sunday, November 30. The impact zone encompasses the coasts of north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh.
Official Advisories and Public Safety Measures
Authorities have issued critical advisories for public safety. Fishermen have been strongly cautioned against venturing into the sea due to anticipated rough conditions over the coming days. Farmers in several parts of Andhra Pradesh have also been advised to take necessary precautions to protect their crops and livelihoods from the strong winds and intense rain.
Echoing the urgency, Puducherry District Collector A Kulothungan advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel. He specifically warned people against standing under trees, lamp posts, or inside old buildings and urged children not to play in open areas.
For immediate assistance and guidance on preventive measures, people have been directed to contact helpline numbers 1077, 1070, 112, or the Disaster Management Authority via WhatsApp at 94889 81070.
With an orange alert also in effect for Puducherry, Karaikal, and the adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts, the region is bracing for nature's fury as it prepares for the imminent landfall of Cyclone Ditwah.
