Cyclone Fengal: What We Know So Far

A new cyclone, called Fengal, is developing over the southeast Bay of Bengal and is forecast to intensify into a storm within the next 1-2 days.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings as the cyclone moves northwest and may make landfall near Chennai or Puducherry along the Tamil Nadu coast.

What is Cyclone Fengal?

Cyclone Fengal has been named by Saudi Arabia, as part of the World Meteorological Organization’s (WMO) naming system for tropical cyclones. This naming system is managed by regional meteorological agencies and helps in tracking and issuing warnings for tropical storms more effectively.

Current Location and Movement of the Cyclone

As of November 27, 2024, the cyclone is located in the Southwest Bay of Bengal. The IMD reports that it has been moving slowly at 3 km/h towards the north-northwest. The current location of the cyclone is near latitude 8.9°N and longitude 82.1°E. This puts it:

• 100 km east-northeast of Trincomalee (Sri Lanka)
• 320 km southeast of Nagapattinam (India)
• 420 km southeast of Puducherry (India)
• 500 km south-southeast of Chennai (India)

Expected Path and Intensification

The IMD predicts that the cyclone will continue its movement towards the north-northwest, passing close to the Sri Lanka coast. Over the next 12 hours, it is expected to intensify into a full-fledged cyclonic storm. Afterward, it will continue its movement north-northwest and reach the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry as a deep depression by the morning of November 30, 2024.

Preparations and Support Efforts

In anticipation of the cyclone's potential impact, the Indian Navy is preparing to assist vulnerable regions along the coast. The Navy is working closely with state and civil authorities to provide necessary support and ensure public safety. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and residents of coastal areas are urged to stay informed about any updates and follow safety protocols. The IMD will continue to provide regular updates on the cyclone’s development and its expected path.

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