The cyclone Fengal has wreaked havoc on Chennai and its neighbouring areas. The cyclone made a landfall near Puducherry on November 30, 2024, resulting in downwater, floods and strong winds. Water has submerged many houses and vehicles. The region has experienced the highest rainfall in 30 years. The residents’ lives have come to a standstill and shook to the core at the same time. The good news is that the storm is now calming down. Nonetheless, it has brought along with it major destruction and loss, a way of recovery of which is yet uncertain.
The Cyclone’s Path and Its Effect
The cyclone commenced and crossed the coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram on Sunday, around 2 a.m. as per Indian Meteorological Department. The storm developed in the Bay of Bengal, and became stronger as it moved towards Tamil Nadu. The cyclone recorded speeds ranging between 70 and 90 km/h. As expected, it brought with it severe rainfall and waterlogging. The Indian Army and NDRF launched a critical relief operation at 6:15 a.m. They evacuated around 100 people during the early hours.
Now, several areas near Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry are on red alert in anticipation of extreme weather changes. Chennai airport, colleges, and schools closed temporarily due to worsening weather conditions. The storm passed, but rain persists in some areas. IMD has predicted moderate rainfall for Puducherry on December 02. So, it is advisable for nearby communities to stay away from flooded areas and stay cautious and alert.
A Sigh of Relief
However, the situation is moving towards normalcy. Respective teams are clearing clogged water and restoring electricity. Volunteers are distributing food, water, and necessities to affected people. Local communities have also shown up in need. They have offered food, shelter and other resources to those in need.
What does it tell us?
The rise of a storm and such heavy rainfall in years has a message to convey. It is for the entire mankind to take care of the weather changes. The increasingly warm sea’s surface has led to the rise of such strong storms and cyclones. This poses an extreme threat to the coastal areas. It is a cue to build better infrastructure and do what best can be done to maintain an optimal climatic balance.
Conclusion
While the storm may have somewhat calmed down now, it has not become still. In the literal sense, it will fade away soon. But on a deeper level, it will be omnipresent if no serious measures are taken. Nature is calling to be taken care of and the call must be answered. At the same time, it is necessary to be prepared for any such uncertainty. Life of people in the affected areas changed overnight and it can happen anywhere, anytime. So, it is important to stay informed and vigilant should any such thing happen again.
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