Chennai, November 30, 2025 – As Cyclone Ditwah approaches the Indian coastline, authorities in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are bracing for heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible disruptions. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Chennai and surrounding districts, signaling a high likelihood of severe weather in the region.

IMD Issues Warnings

According to the IMD, the cyclonic storm is expected to move northwards along the north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts, maintaining a distance of approximately 70 km offshore by noon and about 30 km in the evening of November 30. This trajectory is expected to bring heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds to several parts of the state.

For Chennai, the IMD has issued an orange alert, indicating a significant chance of rainfall and potential disruptions. Other districts under the same warning include Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Vellore, Dharmapuri, Ariyalur, Pudukkottai, Ranipet, and Chengalpattu. The rest of Tamil Nadu remains under a yellow alert, signalling light to moderate rainfall, while Cuddalore and the union territory of Puducherry are under a red alert, highlighting the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall and severe weather conditions.

The IMD has advised residents to stay indoors where possible, avoid non-essential travel, and take precautions against waterlogging and wind-related hazards. Fishermen and coastal communities have been instructed to remain cautious and avoid venturing into the sea until the storm passes.

Impact on Chennai Airport

The approaching storm has already begun to affect normal life in the city. Chennai International Airport has cancelled approximately 47 flights due to the adverse weather.

Of these, 18 departing flights from Chennai to domestic destinations such as Madurai, Tiruchi, Thoothukudi, and Salem have been called off. Similarly, 18 incoming flights from the same cities have also been cancelled. In addition, 11 international flights have been affected. Six of these involved departures from Chennai to Colombo (5 flights) and Jaffna (1 flight), while five arriving flights from Colombo and Jaffna were also cancelled. Airport authorities have urged passengers to check their flight status and plan travel accordingly.

Weather Conditions in the City

Residents of Chennai and surrounding districts are already experiencing intermittent heavy rainfall and strong winds as the cyclonic storm approaches. The IMD has warned that the rainfall could intensify in the coming hours, particularly in low-lying areas prone to waterlogging.

Local authorities are coordinating with disaster management teams to ensure emergency services are ready to respond. Municipal workers have been deployed to monitor drainage systems and prevent flooding, while traffic authorities are on alert for potential road disruptions caused by the storm.

Cyclone Ditwah: Current Status

As of the latest update from the IMD, Cyclone Ditwah is centered over the southwest Bay of Bengal and is moving northwards, paralleling the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coastline. While the storm is not expected to make direct landfall, its proximity to the coast is likely to bring strong winds ranging from 60 to 70 kmph, with gusts up to 80 kmph, and high waves along the shore.

The weather department has also indicated that the storm could weaken into a deep depression as it continues its northward trajectory. However, heavy rainfall and rough sea conditions are expected to persist in coastal districts until December 1.

Precautionary Measures

Authorities have urged residents to take the following precautions:

• Avoid travelling in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
• Stay indoors during periods of heavy rain and strong winds.
• Secure loose objects around homes to prevent damage.
• Fishermen and boat operators should not venture into the sea until conditions improve.
• Commuters should monitor official channels and news updates for real-time information on road and flight conditions.

Conclusion

With Cyclone Ditwah continuing to approach the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast, authorities, meteorologists, and emergency services remain vigilant. The orange alert in Chennai and the flight cancellations underscore the seriousness of the situation, and residents are urged to remain cautious and adhere to safety advisories.

The storm, named Ditwah by Yemen after a lagoon on the northwest coast of Socotra, is a reminder of the recurring challenges posed by cyclones in the Bay of Bengal region, particularly during the late November to December cyclone season.

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