New Delhi, November 29, 2025: Southern India is bracing for the effects of Cyclone Ditwah, which has already caused significant destruction in Sri Lanka, claiming around 120 lives. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that from November 29, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, coastal Andhra Pradesh, and parts of South Interior Karnataka are likely to witness rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds as the cyclone moves north-northwestwards over the southwest Bay of Bengal.

Bengaluru’s Weather Outlook

Residents of Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka, may experience light rainfall as a peripheral impact of the cyclone. According to the IMD’s weekly forecast, the maximum temperature in the city is expected to hover around 25 degrees Celsius, with the minimum dropping to 18 degrees Celsius. While the city will see some showers, authorities do not expect Cyclone Ditwah to cause severe disruptions in Bengaluru. The rainfall is likely to be intermittent, mainly occurring during the late morning or evening hours, and is not expected to bring strong winds or flooding to the urban areas.

Impact Across South Interior Karnataka

Parts of South Interior Karnataka, including districts away from the coast, may witness moderate rainfall and gusty winds. Local authorities have been advised to remain alert for localized flooding, waterlogging, and minor disruptions to road traffic. While the cyclone’s strongest impact is concentrated along the Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh coastlines, precautionary measures in Karnataka are being implemented in areas expected to receive rainfall.

Heavy Rainfall and Safety Measures in Tamil Nadu

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has issued warnings for very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in several districts of Tamil Nadu as the cyclone approaches. Chief Minister MK Stalin has held discussions with district Collectors from 14 affected regions to review safety arrangements, particularly in coastal areas vulnerable to storm surges.

Authorities have advised tourists and locals to avoid visiting Dhanushkodi near Pamban Island, a region historically vulnerable to cyclones, most notably during the devastating 1964 Rameswaram cyclone. Emergency services, disaster response teams, and local administration have been placed on high alert, with plans in place for evacuation and relief operations if necessary.

Disruption to Flights and Transportation

Due to Cyclone Ditwah, Chennai Airport has cancelled 54 scheduled flights over the weekend. The IMD has forecast extremely heavy rain and strong winds for the next two days, prompting the suspension of several flights and other transport services to ensure passenger safety. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel along coastal areas and low-lying zones.

School Closures

In light of the cyclone, schools and colleges in several districts of Tamil Nadu have been closed for Saturday. Districts affected include Perambalur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Cuddalore, Kallakurichi, Pudukottai, Puducherry, and Karaikal. Authorities have advised parents to keep children indoors and monitor updates from local disaster management authorities.

Chennai and Neighbouring Districts on High Alert

The city of Chennai and surrounding districts remain under alerts for intense rainfall and strong winds. Citizens have been urged to stay indoors, avoid venturing into waterlogged streets, and adhere to safety instructions issued by local authorities. The IMD has also advised fishermen not to venture into the sea due to high wave conditions caused by the cyclone.

Forecast for the Coming Days

Cyclone Ditwah is expected to remain over the sea near the southwest Bay of Bengal without making a direct landfall on the Indian coast. Despite this, coastal areas will experience heavy rains, strong winds, and potential inundation of low-lying areas. Fishermen along Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh coasts have been instructed to remain in port until the cyclone passes.

For interior districts like Bengaluru, the impact is expected to be milder, limited to occasional showers, while temperatures will remain moderate. Authorities continue to monitor the system and provide real-time updates on rainfall and weather conditions.

Public Advisory

The IMD and local authorities have urged the public to:

• Avoid traveling to coastal areas until the cyclone passes.
• Stay updated with forecasts and warnings issued by the IMD.
• Ensure proper drainage in waterlogged areas.
• Avoid venturing into flood-prone streets in both coastal and interior districts.
• Follow instructions from district administration and emergency services.

With Cyclone Ditwah intensifying over the Bay of Bengal, southern India remains on high alert. While Bengaluru residents can expect only light rainfall, coastal regions of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are bracing for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding, prompting robust precautionary measures across the affected states.

---