Cyclone 'Fengal' Wreaks Havoc: 15 Dead and Over 4.5 Lakh Affected in Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Braces for Impact
15 people died in Sri Lanka due to adverse weather conditions caused by the effect of a deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) gave this information. The DMC said that more than 4,50,000 people have been affected by floods, strong winds and landslides in the country and 15 people have died so far. It said that a maximum 10 deaths occurred in the Eastern Province. Meteorological Department officials said that the cyclone that wreaked havoc in the Eastern Province will later move towards the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India. After this, the weather conditions in the country may improve.
The Meteorological Department said that more than 100 mm of rain is expected in North, North Central and East Trincomalee districts. Winds are also likely to blow at a speed of more than 60 kmph in some parts of the country. Heavy rains in Tamil Nadu, 'Fengal' moving towards the coast Cyclonic storm 'Fengal' is likely to reach near Puducherry on Saturday afternoon.
Heavy rains accompanied by strong winds lashed many parts of northern Tamil Nadu on Saturday, disrupting normal life as it headed towards the coast. State-run transport corporations operated a relatively small number of public transport in Chennai and adjoining areas. Police have put up barricades to block access to famous beaches, including Marina and Mamallapuram, as the sea is very rough. State-run milk supply 'Aavin' was not affected and power supply was normal in most areas. The government had already declared a holiday for educational institutions on November 30 and requested information technology (IT) companies to allow their employees to work from home.
Amid the possibility of Cyclone 'Fengal' hitting Puducherry during the day on Saturday, heavy rains lashed Puducherry on Saturday morning, following which the district administration has sent an SMS alert to about 12 lakh residents asking them to remain alert. District Collector A Kulothungan told PTI that all necessary steps have been taken to ensure the safety of the people.
Kulothungan said, "We have evacuated people from low-lying areas and shelters have also been prepared for them. Arrangements have also been made to supply food packets." He said that a team of the National Disaster Response Force has arrived from Arakkonam to join the relief and rehabilitation work. According to the district administration, cyclone 'Fengal' is likely to cross the coast by evening.
Official sources said that 'Fengal' is likely to pass between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram coasts near Puducherry. The government has advised people to stay indoors. The entire road near the beach and many tourist places have been closed to ensure that people do not go near the beaches. Schools and colleges remained closed on Saturday as well.