Cyclone Ditwah Intensifies, Poses Severe Threat to Southern Coast
Cyclonic storm Ditwah continues to intensify over the southwest Bay of Bengal, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert for northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and parts of south Andhra Pradesh. The storm, moving at approximately 7 kmph, is projected to pass as close as 25 km from the Chennai coast early Sunday, raising significant concerns among authorities and residents alike.
Widespread Flight Cancellations and Travel Disruptions
In response to the escalating weather situation, Chennai Airport has cancelled 47 flights scheduled for Sunday, comprising 36 domestic and 11 international services. Airport officials have warned that additional cancellations might follow if weather conditions deteriorate further. Air India has issued a travel advisory cautioning passengers about potential disruptions due to heavy rainfall and strong winds affecting flight operations to and from Chennai and other southern Indian cities.
Passengers with travel plans have been strongly advised to contact their respective airlines to confirm departure schedules before heading to airports. The airport authority emphasized the importance of checking updated flight information regularly as the cyclone approaches.
Government Response and Safety Measures
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conducted a comprehensive review of preparedness measures with Southern Railways officials to minimize potential disruptions to rail services and ensure passenger safety. Meanwhile, Puducherry authorities have ordered the closure of all liquor shops by 8 pm as part of precautionary measures.
The IMD has forecast heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across multiple districts including Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Villuppuram, Chengalpattu, and Puducherry-Karaikal. Other districts such as Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Ranipet are also expected to experience intense showers.
Regional Impact and International Assistance
Andhra Pradesh is bracing for heavy rainfall from November 30 to December 3, with the APSDMA warning of significant showers in Tirupati, Chittoor, Prakasam, Nellore, Kadapa, and Annamayya districts. The cyclone has already caused substantial devastation in Sri Lanka, resulting in over 150 fatalities and nearly 200 missing persons.
India has launched Operation Sagar Bandhu, deploying Chetak helicopters from INS Vikrant to conduct search and rescue missions in Sri Lanka. The Indian Embassy confirmed that 80 NDRF personnel and rescue dogs have been sent to assist in relief operations, demonstrating strong bilateral cooperation during this crisis.
Local authorities across affected regions have issued strict warnings for residents to remain indoors and avoid coastal areas. Fishermen have been specifically cautioned against venturing into the sea as rough conditions are expected to intensify with the cyclone's approach. Low-lying regions remain on high alert as the situation continues to evolve.
