The Indian Meteorological Department has escalated warnings to a red alert as Cyclone Ditwah continues its dangerous approach toward the Tamil Nadu coastline. The severe weather system has already claimed more than 80 lives in Sri Lanka and now threatens several Indian states with extreme weather conditions.
IMD Issues Severe Weather Warnings
Chennai and thirteen adjoining districts have been placed under an orange alert anticipating heavy to very heavy rainfall on Saturday. Meteorological experts predict precipitation levels could reach between 12 to 20 centimeters across multiple regions, creating potential flooding scenarios.
The Regional Weather Forecasting Centre has indicated that wind speeds may intensify dramatically, reaching sustained velocities of 70 to 80 kilometers per hour. The forecast suggests gusts could peak at 90 kilometers per hour along coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal regions as the cyclone system moves parallel to the shoreline.
State Governments Heighten Preparedness
Andhra Pradesh has activated emergency protocols in response to the approaching cyclone. State authorities have established dedicated control rooms and positioned disaster response teams in vulnerable areas. Rayalaseema and south coastal districts are expected to receive heavy showers, prompting the issuance of both orange and red alerts across the region.
The Tamil Nadu government has mobilized its disaster management forces, focusing on coastal communities and low-lying areas that traditionally experience flooding during such weather events. Fishermen have been advised to remain ashore, and coastal residents have been alerted about potential evacuation procedures.
Regional Impact and International Consequences
The cyclone's impact has already been felt beyond Indian borders, with Sri Lanka reporting tragic consequences. The death toll has surpassed 80 people as the weather system caused widespread destruction before heading toward the Indian subcontinent.
Meteorological departments across the region are closely monitoring Cyclone Ditwah's trajectory, updating predictions every few hours as new data becomes available. The system's unusual parallel tracking along the coastline has raised concerns among weather experts about prolonged exposure to severe conditions for coastal communities.
Emergency services in both Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh remain on high alert, with relief materials prepositioned in districts most likely to be affected. Authorities have urged residents to follow official updates and adhere to safety guidelines issued by local administrations.
