Cyclone Ditwa Weakens but Triggers Heavy Rainfall Across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry; IMD Issues High-Wind and Rainfall Alerts
Cyclone Ditwa Weakens but Triggers Heavy Rainfall Across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry: Cyclone Ditwa, currently positioned over the southwest Bay of Bengal near the northern Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coast, is expected to weaken into a deep depression by this morning, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Despite its gradual weakening, the storm continues to bring widespread heavy rainfall and strong winds to several parts of South India, severely disrupting normal life.
On Sunday (November 30), heavy rain lashed many districts of Tamil Nadu, claiming three lives in rain-related incidents. Several low-lying areas remain flooded, especially in the Cauvery delta region, with Ramanathapuram and Nagapattinam among the worst affected. Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Rayalaseema, and Telangana also reported intense rainfall as the cyclone’s effects spread inland.
The IMD stated that Cyclone Ditwa is moving northward at a slow pace of 5 kmph. Throughout Monday, it is expected to remain centered over the southwest Bay of Bengal, at a distance of 40 km and 20 km from the northern Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coastline. The system continues to influence weather patterns, with very heavy rainfall forecast across multiple regions.
Rainfall alerts issued
According to a PTI report, heavy rain is expected today in Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur, Chennai, Chengalpattu, and Ranipet districts. The IMD has predicted cloudy skies with intermittent rainfall for Monday as the system moves over the open sea and gradually weakens.
A broader alert has been issued for Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Villupuram, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Tiruchirapalli, and Chennai districts, as well as Puducherry and Karaikal, where heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely.
Strong winds expected; fishermen warned
The IMD has forecast strong winds reaching speeds of 60–70 kmph, with gusts up to 80 kmph, along northern coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Authorities have advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea until conditions improve.
As Cyclone Ditwa weakens further, officials remain on high alert to manage flooding, power outages, and disruptions caused by the relentless rain.
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