As Cyclonic Storm Ditwah continues to move towards the Indian coastline, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Sunday issued a red alert for the north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts.
The IMD also hoisted a Danger Signal Number 5 (D-V) in Cuddalore. The Signal 5 means a cyclonic storm of moderate intensity will cross the coast, keeping the port to its left.
According to the IMD, Cyclone Ditwah is very likely to move nearly northwards parallel to the North Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts during the next 24 hours.
While moving northwards, the cyclonic storm will be centred over the southwest Bay of Bengal within a minimum distance of 70 km and 30 km from the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coastline by noon and evening of Sunday, November 30.
Ahead of Cyclone Ditwah’s likely landfall, several regions in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry have been witnessing heavy rainfall over the past few days.
Earlier, the IMD issued an orange alert for Chennai and some other parts of Tamil Nadu even as strong winds and rough sea conditions persisted in the capital city.
In view of the adverse weather conditions, the Chennai airport authorities have cancelled around 47 flights.
The weather office has predicted heavy rains, accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms in Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kacheepuram, Vellore, Dharampuri, Ariyallur, Puddukottai, Ranippetai and Chengalpattu.
Puducherry braces for Cyclone Ditwah’s impact
Meanwhile, high tides, strong winds and rainfall were also witnessed in Puducherry as the effect of Cyclone Ditwah intensifies.
Officials have warned locals to stay away from the coast. Fishermen have also been advised not to venture into the sea.
A tourist in Puducherry said that they came on a trip but the storm has made it difficult for them to explore the region.
“We came to Puducherry yesterday for our trip, but then we came to know about the cyclone and for our safety, they (officials) are not allowing us to go near the sea. We are following the rules. We will leave today,” he said.
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