Parts of Tamil Nadu have been placed on high alert as cyclone Ditwah edges closer to the state’s coastline, prompting authorities to prepare for heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of waterlogging. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several districts, warning that the cyclonic storm, currently hovering near Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify slightly before making landfall. Coastal regions of Puducherry, Kerala, and parts of Telangana are also expected to experience significant weather disruptions.

Cyclone Ditwah, which has already caused severe damage in Sri Lanka, is moving north-northwest and is predicted to approach the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast, as well as adjoining south Andhra Pradesh areas, by the early hours of November 30. IMD chief Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra confirmed that the storm will exit Sri Lanka and enter the southwest Bay of Bengal by Saturday morning, potentially intensifying slightly as it moves over the warm sea waters. The cyclone has already led to widespread concern due to its potential for heavy rain and strong gusts.

The IMD has forecast extremely heavy rainfall at isolated locations along coastal Tamil Nadu, with heavy to very heavy rain expected at many other places. Light to moderate rainfall is also likely in a few regions. The Regional Meteorological Centre has specifically issued red alerts for Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Villupuram, Chengalpattu, and Puducherry, citing the risk of extremely heavy rainfall in these areas. Gale-force winds reaching speeds of 70-80 kmph, gusting up to 90 kmph, are expected along the northern Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts from Saturday morning through Sunday morning.

Authorities have cautioned that the cyclone’s heavy rainfall could cause localized flooding and waterlogging, particularly in urban areas. In hilly regions, the potential for flash-flood-like situations is high. Additionally, strong winds are likely to uproot trees, damage signboards and hoardings, and affect thatched or mud houses. The storm may also inflict considerable damage on standing crops, including horticulture, floriculture, and vegetables, especially those nearing harvest.

While the cyclone poses the most immediate threat to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, other southern states are also expected to experience varying levels of rainfall. Kerala is likely to see light to moderate rainfall at many places, with heavy rainfall at isolated locations on Saturday. Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema are forecasted to experience light to moderate rainfall at most places, with heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated locations. On Sunday, heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places and extremely heavy rainfall at isolated locations is anticipated. Telangana, meanwhile, is expected to receive light to moderate rainfall at a few places, with heavy rainfall at isolated locations on Sunday.

The IMD has urged residents in affected areas to exercise caution and prepare for potential disruptions. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea due to high waves and turbulent conditions. Local administrations are taking preventive measures, including evacuation plans, relief arrangements, and emergency response readiness, to mitigate the cyclone’s impact. Authorities have also emphasized the importance of maintaining drainage systems and securing vulnerable structures to minimize damage.

In light of the approaching storm, government agencies and disaster management teams are closely monitoring the situation. Coordination between state departments, local authorities, and the IMD is ongoing to ensure timely dissemination of information and effective response measures. Citizens are advised to stay updated with official advisories, follow safety protocols, and avoid non-essential travel during the cyclone’s approach and landfall period.

The cyclone comes at a critical time, with previous storms having caused extensive damage in the region. Communities along the coast are particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to the sea and low-lying topography. The IMD has emphasized that while Ditwah is not expected to cross the Indian coast directly, its proximity is sufficient to bring severe weather conditions to affected areas. The situation remains dynamic, and forecasts will continue to be updated as the cyclone progresses.

Authorities are also preparing for the post-cyclone scenario, including potential relief and rehabilitation efforts for affected populations. Emergency response teams are on standby to provide medical aid, restore essential services, and support displaced individuals. Coordination with central agencies has been initiated to ensure that resources are mobilized efficiently in case the cyclone leads to widespread disruption. The overarching goal is to minimize damage, protect life, and maintain public safety across the impacted regions.

In conclusion, cyclone Ditwah has prompted a red alert across parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and adjoining coastal areas due to expected heavy rainfall, strong winds, and waterlogging. While the storm is currently near Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal, its north-northwest trajectory suggests that it will approach the Indian coastline by early Sunday. Authorities have mobilized disaster response measures, issued warnings, and advised residents to remain vigilant as the cyclone moves closer. The coming hours are crucial, and continuous monitoring and preparedness will be essential to manage the cyclone’s impact and ensure the safety of communities in its path.