Cyclone Ditwah has intensified over the Bay of Bengal, causing widespread travel disruptions and prompting red alerts across several southern states. The storm, which has already left a trail of destruction in Sri Lanka, is expected to reach the coasts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and southern Andhra Pradesh by early November 30.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that Cyclone Ditwah is currently moving north-northwest at approximately 7 kmph. As of this afternoon, the storm was situated about 300 km south-southeast of Karaikal, 410 km from Puducherry, and 510 km from Chennai. It is expected to continue on its current trajectory, reaching the southwest Bay of Bengal, near the north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh coasts by early tomorrow morning.
Prior to its arrival in India, Cyclone Ditwah wreaked havoc in Sri Lanka, resulting in over 80 fatalities and causing extensive damage due to floods and landslides. Dozens are still missing. India has extended assistance to Sri Lanka, dispatching food and essential relief supplies. Prime Minister Modi has expressed condolences and pledged further support to the affected communities.
In anticipation of the cyclone's arrival, authorities in Tamil Nadu and other southern states have issued red alerts for coastal districts. Heavy rainfall is expected in the southern and Cauvery delta districts. Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, and Tiruvarur are already experiencing heavy downpours. Residents in low-lying coastal areas are being evacuated to safer locations, where they are provided with food and shelter. District Collectors have been instructed to monitor water levels in reservoirs and potential sea surges. The public is advised to remain indoors due to the adverse weather conditions.
Several precautionary measures have been implemented to mitigate the impact of the cyclone. Educational institutions in coastal areas have been closed, and examinations have been postponed. Flight services in Chennai have been disrupted. IndiGo Airlines has cancelled all scheduled flights to Thoothukudi, Trichy, and Madurai. Operations are expected to resume once the weather conditions improve and safety is assured.
The IMD has warned of squally winds reaching speeds of up to 70 kmph, with gusts up to 80 kmph, along the Tamil Nadu coast. Very strong winds, with speeds between 60-70 kmph and gusts up to 80-90 kmph, are expected over most parts of Sri Lanka.
NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams are on standby, ready to deploy as needed. The Regional Meteorological Centre has issued a red alert, indicating the possibility of isolated extremely heavy rainfall for several districts in Tamil Nadu.
Cyclone Ditwah is currently classified as a cyclonic storm, and there are no indications of further intensification. However, authorities are maintaining a high level of preparedness to minimize potential damages and ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as the cyclone progresses.
