Cyclone Ditwah is intensifying as it approaches the Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh coasts, prompting widespread safety measures, including flight disruptions and school closures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that the cyclone is very likely to move north-northwest and reach the coasts of northern Tamil Nadu and southern Andhra Pradesh by the early morning of November 30.

Current Situation and Forecast

As of November 29, 2025, Cyclone Ditwah was located approximately 220 km south-southeast of Karaikal, 330 km south-southeast of Puducherry, and 430 km south of Chennai, moving at a speed of 7 kmph. Satellite imagery indicates dense cloud cover over the southwest Bay of Bengal and the Sri Lanka coastline as the storm progresses. The IMD has issued an orange alert for north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh, warning of extremely heavy rainfall in the delta and southern districts from November 29-30, accompanied by rough to very rough sea conditions.

Impact and Preparations

Authorities in Tamil Nadu have moved into high alert, deploying disaster response teams, preparing shelters, and reviewing emergency measures. A red alert has been issued for Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Villupuram, and Chengalpattu districts in Tamil Nadu, as well as Puducherry, due to the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall. An orange alert is in effect for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, Salem, and delta districts, where extremely heavy rainfall is also expected on Saturday.

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has warned of high winds, forecasting speeds of 70–80 kmph, gusting to 90 kmph over the delta and adjoining coastal districts, Puducherry, and Karaikal on Saturday.

Flight Disruptions

Several flights bound for Colombo have been diverted to Thiruvananthapuram airport due to adverse weather conditions, and more diversions are anticipated.

School Closures

In anticipation of the cyclone's impact, the government has ordered the closure of schools in several districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Sri Lanka's Devastation

Prior to reaching India, Cyclone Ditwah caused catastrophic flooding and landslides in Sri Lanka, resulting in over 80 deaths and leaving more than 20 people missing. Over 43,991 people from 12,313 families have been affected, with most casualties caused by landslides triggered by 300 mm of rainfall in eastern and central regions. India has extended assistance to Sri Lanka through "Operation Sagar Bandhu," deploying aircraft and providing essential relief supplies.

IMD Director's Statement

IMD Director Stella stated that wind speeds are expected to reach 50 to 60 km/h, peaking at 70 km/h on November 29 and 30. Extremely heavy rainfall is likely over Nellore, Prakasam, Tirupati, Chittoor, Annamaya, and Kadapa districts. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is possible over Bapatla, Guntur, Palnaadu, and Nandiyan districts.