The India Meteorological Department has escalated weather warnings to the highest level as cyclonic storm Ditwah continues its threatening path toward India's southeastern coastline. The weather system, currently moving northwards over the southwest Bay of Bengal at seven kilometers per hour, has prompted authorities to implement emergency measures across vulnerable regions.
Storm Position and Projected Path
As of 8:30 PM IST on Sunday, the cyclonic storm was positioned near latitude 10.5°N and longitude 80.6°E. The storm's current location places it approximately 110 km northeast of Jaffna in Sri Lanka, 80 km east of Vedaranniyam, 100 km east-southeast of Karaikal, 180 km south-southeast of Puducherry, and 280 km south of Chennai. Meteorological experts project the system will maintain its north-northwestward trajectory, likely making landfall near the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast by early morning on November 30.
The IMD has indicated that Cyclone Ditwah will progressively approach the coastline, coming within 60 km by midnight today, 50 km by early morning, and 25 km by evening tomorrow. This gradual approach increases the duration of severe weather conditions across the region.
Emergency Preparations and Safety Measures
State authorities have activated comprehensive disaster response protocols. Revenue Minister KKSSR Ramachandran confirmed that 12 National Disaster Response Force teams and 16 State Disaster Response Force teams have been strategically positioned across vulnerable districts. Additionally, 13 relief camps have been established in Ramanathapuram, Thiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Villupuram to accommodate potential evacuees.
In Chennai, the Greater Chennai Corporation has implemented its flood-mitigation plan, deploying specialized flood-control teams and preparing 215 relief centers with 111 emergency kitchens. The civic body has activated its 24×7 emergency helpline (1913) and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall and strong winds.
The Puducherry administration has taken unique precautionary measures, ordering all liquor shops and bars to close by 8 pm to ensure public safety and facilitate emergency response operations.
Weather Impact and Travel Disruptions
The IMD has forecast extremely heavy rainfall in Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Villuppuram, Chengalpattu, and the Puducherry–Karaikal region. Widespread heavy showers are expected in Thanjavur, Tiruchirappalli, Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, and Ranipet, while isolated significant rainfall may affect Vellore, Dharmapuri, Dindigul, and Theni districts.
The aviation sector has begun experiencing ripple effects, with Air India issuing a travel advisory warning passengers about potential flight disruptions. The airline has urged travelers to verify their flight status before heading to airports throughout the cyclone period.
Fishermen have received strict warnings against venturing into sea waters, while coastal residents have been advised to remain indoors and follow instructions from district authorities. The IMD expects the weather system to weaken into a deep depression by Monday morning after coming within 25 km of the coast on Sunday evening.
Regional Context and Previous Impact
The approaching cyclone has raised particular concern given its devastating impact on Sri Lanka. Before nearing Indian waters, Cyclone Ditwah claimed 123 lives in Sri Lanka, with 130 people still reported missing according to the Disaster Management Centre. The storm destroyed approximately 15,000 homes and displaced around 44,000 people in the island nation, highlighting the system's destructive potential.
Indian authorities are monitoring the situation continuously, with the IMD promising regular updates as the cyclone evolves. Residents in affected areas are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and prioritize safety measures during this severe weather event.
