Cyclone Fengal Live Updates: Chennai Waterlogged, Fewer Local Trains, Airport Shut

Chennai, November 30, 2024 — Cyclone Fengal has unleashed its fury across Tamil Nadu’s capital, bringing heavy rains, water logging, and disruption to daily life. The city is grappling with incessant downpours, forcing authorities to suspend local train services partially and temporarily shut down Chennai International Airport. Here’s the latest on the developing situation.

Chennai Under Water: Streets Turn Rivers

Torrential rains, triggered by Cyclone Fengal, have left several parts of Chennai severely waterlogged. Key neighbourhoods such as T. Nagar, Velachery, and Anna Nagar are among the worst affected. Water levels on arterial roads have risen significantly, disrupting vehicular movement and leaving commuters stranded.

The Greater Chennai Corporation has deployed pumps to drain water from critical areas, but efforts are hampered by continuous rainfall. Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel.

Local Train Services Reduced

Chennai’s suburban train network, a lifeline for thousands of daily commuters, has been severely impacted. Southern Railway announced the suspension of services on the Chennai Beach–Tambaram route due to flooding on tracks. Limited trains are running on alternative routes with delays.

Passengers are advised to check real-time updates before heading to railway stations. Southern Railway is coordinating with disaster management teams to restore services once water levels recede.

Chennai Airport Temporarily Closed

Chennai International Airport has halted operations until further notice. Flights scheduled for today have either been cancelled or diverted to nearby airports such as Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

Airport officials stated that the runways are waterlogged, making operations unsafe. Passengers are requested to contact their airlines for updates and rescheduling options.

Schools and Offices Shut

The Tamil Nadu government has declared a holiday for schools and colleges in Chennai and adjoining districts. IT companies and private organizations have also been encouraged to allow employees to work from home.

State officials have assured residents that emergency services are operational. Rescue teams and medical personnel are on standby to address any crisis.

Relief Measures in Place

Authorities have intensified relief and rescue operations in vulnerable areas. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed in Chennai to assist with evacuations and distribution of essential supplies.

Temporary shelters have been set up across the city to accommodate displaced residents. Food packets, clean drinking water, and medical aid are being provided to those affected.

Power supply has been disrupted in some areas as a precautionary measure to prevent electrical accidents. TANGEDCO, Tamil Nadu’s electricity board, is working to restore power as soon as conditions improve.

Weather Forecast: More Rain Ahead

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of continued heavy rainfall in Chennai and surrounding regions over the next 24–48 hours. Cyclone Fengal, currently categorized as a severe cyclonic storm, is expected to weaken as it moves further inland.

Residents are advised to stay updated through official weather bulletins and follow safety protocols.

Dos and Don’ts During the Cyclone

Authorities have issued the following safety guidelines for Chennai residents:

• Do:

o Stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.

o Keep emergency kits, including food, water, and flashlights, handy.

o Charge mobile phones and ensure power banks are ready.

o Follow updates from official government channels.

• Don’t:

o Attempt to cross waterlogged streets or drive in flooded areas.

o Touch electrical appliances or cables during waterlogging.

o Spread rumours or unverified information on social media.

Government’s Appeal for Calm

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has assured residents that the government is taking all necessary measures to ensure their safety. In a press briefing, he urged citizens to cooperate with authorities and remain vigilant.

“The government is closely monitoring the situation. Relief teams are working round the clock to address emergencies. We request people to stay calm and follow official advisories,” Stalin said.

Stay Tuned for Live Updates

As Cyclone Fengal continues to impact Chennai, follow this space for live updates on weather conditions, transportation advisories, and relief measures.

Stay safe and stay informed.