Visakhapatnam: A heavy rainfall alert has been issued for Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh as a deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into Cyclone Fengal on November 27, 2024.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced that the cyclone will move north-northwest towards the Tamil Nadu coast, skirting the Sri Lanka coast over the next two days.
Cyclone Fengal marks the second cyclone in the post-monsoon season to impact the Indian coastline, following Cyclone Dana, which affected Odisha in late October. The name Fengal was suggested by Saudi Arabia.
IMD forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of south coastal Andhra Pradesh and the Rayalaseema district, with significant rainfall expected in northern coastal Andhra Pradesh between November 27 and November 30.
On November 27, areas in Prakasam, Nellore, Tirupati, Annamayya, and Chittoor districts are likely to experience heavy rainfall. The following day, heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated in parts of Nellore, Tirupati, and Annamayya districts, with isolated heavy rainfall also expected in Bapatla, Prakasam, Sri Satya Sai, Chittoor, and YSR Kadapa districts.
Heavy rainfall is also predicted on November 29 across Nellore, Prakasam, Tirupati, Annamayya, and Chittoor districts, as well as in Bapatla, Sri Satya Sai, YSR Kadapa, Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, and Anakapalle.
Additionally, squally winds with speeds of 35-45 km/h, gusting up to 55 km/h, are expected along parts of coastal northern Andhra Pradesh. Wind speeds may reach 55-65 km/h, with gusts up to 75 km/h along the southern coastal regions over the next two days.
The state-level Disaster Management Authority has issued an alert regarding the strengthening of the atmospheric depression into a cyclonic storm. Ronanki Kurmanath, Managing Director of the disaster management agency, has advised residents of the affected areas to remain vigilant and prepared.
Fishermen are warned against venturing into the sea from November 27 to 29 due to the increased risk associated with the cyclone. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels for the latest weather updates and safety advisories.