Schools and colleges across Tamil Nadu, India, were shut, and hundreds of people were evacuated to shelters as Cyclone Fengal approached the region. The powerful storm, with sustained winds of 70-80 km/h, is expected to make landfall on Saturday afternoon. The India Meteorological Department issued a warning urging fishing crews to stay off the water and cautioning against surging waves, which could reach up to one meter, posing a flood risk to low-lying coastal areas.
At least 471 people were relocated to relief camps ahead of the cyclone’s arrival, and authorities were on high alert, with plans for further evacuations if necessary. The storm, which earlier skirted the coast of Sri Lanka, claimed at least 12 lives, including six children, highlighting the destructive potential of cyclones in the region.
Cyclones are a recurring threat in the northern Indian Ocean, causing significant damage to lives and property. Scientists have warned that such storms are becoming more powerful, partly due to climate change. Rising ocean temperatures, driven by global warming, provide more water vapor, which fuels storm intensity. Warmer atmospheres also increase the capacity of storms to carry heavier rainfall, intensifying their impact.
However, improved forecasting methods and evacuation strategies have significantly reduced fatalities in recent years, demonstrating the importance of preparedness in minimizing the damage caused by such extreme weather events. Despite the risks, authorities are continuing efforts to protect vulnerable populations in the affected areas.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE