Emergency declared as cyclone threatens Tamil Nadu coast

On November 29, 2024, a 'Deep Depression' has developed in the Bay of Bengal, approximately 470 kilometers south-southeast of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. This weather system is expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm in the coming days, particularly on Thursday and Friday, and is forecasted to approach the Northern Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts by the morning of Saturday, November 30. As the system moves towards the coast, gusty winds are anticipated at speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour, leading to rough sea conditions, rainfall, and possible stormy weather in the affected areas. In response to the potential threat posed by this storm, the Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command and the Headquarters of the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area have activated a comprehensive disaster response mechanism. They are focusing on Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) and Search & Rescue (SAR) operations. Concurrently, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is proactively disseminating weather updates and safety protocols aimed at seafarers, particularly fisherfolk, urging them to return to harbors or relocate to safer areas to avoid the hazardous conditions expected in the coming days. The ICG has also put ships and aircraft on high alert to ensure swift action can be taken in any emergency situations that may arise. As part of the preparedness activities, the ICG has stationed Disaster Relief Teams at strategic locations along the coast, including Chennai, Puducherry, Karaikal, and Tuticorin. These teams are tasked with providing immediate assistance and relief operations as circumstances necessitate. The focus is also placed on safeguarding coastal infrastructure like oil rigs, port facilities, and settlements. Regular coordination with state authorities is ongoing to ensure the safety of coastal communities as the situation evolves and the storm approaches. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed eight teams across the coastal districts to reinforce the state's disaster management efforts. As the weather system is poised to impact the region significantly, these agencies are working collaboratively to mitigate risks, ensuring that the necessary resources and capacities are in place to respond effectively to any eventuality caused by the impending cyclone.