Cyclone Ditwah Triggers Chaos Across Tamil Nadu
Cyclone Ditwah is closing in on the Tamil Nadu coast with powerful winds and extremely heavy rainfall. Several parts of Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, and Villupuram have already recorded intense showers as the storm inches closer from the Bay of Bengal.
The IMD has issued a red alert, warning that the cyclone may bring wind speeds touching 90–110 kmph, leading to flooding, waterlogging, and damage to exposed structures.
Chennai Wakes Up to Heavy Rain & Waterlogging
The impact has already started.
Residents in Chennai woke up to non-stop overnight rain, causing heavy waterlogging in multiple neighbourhoods. Traffic slowed down during peak morning hours, and many officegoers struggled with delayed public transport.
Disaster teams have been deployed across major junctions, and pumps are running continuously in flood-prone areas.
Flights Cancelled, Schools & Colleges Closed
The weather has heavily disrupted travel:
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Several flights from Chennai Airport were cancelled or delayed
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Airlines issued travel advisories for passengers
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District administrations declared a holiday for schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Puducherry, and Cuddalore
Authorities have urged people to stay indoors during peak storm hours.
Sri Lanka Reports Massive Destruction: Over 80 Dead
Cyclone Ditwah caused severe devastation in Sri Lanka before heading towards India.
Over 80 people have died, hundreds are missing, and thousands have been displaced due to flooding and landslides.
India has sent its first batch of relief supplies including food, medicines, tents, and water purification units to support emergency operations in the affected regions.
Heavy Rain Forecast for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala & Telangana
The IMD has expanded warnings across South India:
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Tamil Nadu: Red alert for extremely heavy rainfall
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Puducherry: Strong winds and potential coastal flooding
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Kerala: Orange alert in several districts
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Telangana: Rain and gusty winds expected
Fishermen have been strictly warned to avoid venturing into the sea as conditions remain extremely rough.
NDRF Teams on Standby, Government Monitors Reservoirs
The NDRF has placed multiple rescue teams in Tamil Nadu’s coastal districts. Emergency control rooms are active, shelters are ready, and power restoration teams are prepared for immediate action in case of outages.
Authorities are also closely monitoring reservoir levels to prevent sudden flooding.
Public Advisory: Stay Safe During the Cyclone
Residents are advised to:
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Charge phones and backup power
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Stock essential supplies
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Stay indoors once winds intensify
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Avoid driving during heavy rainfall
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Follow IMD and government alerts
Cyclone Ditwah: Situation to Intensify Over the Next 24 Hours
With the cyclone approaching the coastline, the next 24 hours are crucial for Tamil Nadu and surrounding states. Authorities have increased surveillance, and emergency services remain ready as the storm prepares to make its closest landfall.
