Cyclone Fengal wreaks havoc: Torrential rains and high winds disrupt flights and trains

The cyclonic storm began making landfall near Puducherry at 5:30 pm on 30th November 2024, as per the IMD. The complete landfall process is expected to take approximately four hours. The cyclone is accompanied by wind speeds of 70-80 kmph, gusting up to 90 kmph, and heavy rainfall impacting coastal areas. (Photo credit: ANI)

Chennai and surrounding areas experienced heavy rains, leading to waterlogging in residential neighbourhoods and key roads. Suburban areas like Velachery and Hasthinapuram were particularly affected, with rainwater entering homes, forcing residents to take preventive measures. (Photo credit: Agencies)

Operations at Chennai Airport were suspended until 4 am on 1st December due to adverse weather. Authorities held emergency meetings to monitor the situation, and airlines issued advisories for affected passengers. The extended closure followed earlier plans to shut the airport from 12:30 pm to 7:00 pm. (Photo credit: PTI)

Severe weather led to the cancellation of several flights and train services. Airlines such as Air India and IndiGo warned passengers about disruptions, and the Southern Railway announced diversions and cancellations for key train routes, advising travellers to stay updated. (Photo credit: ANI)

Rainwater inundated two state-run hospitals in Chromepet, disrupting medical services. On major roads like Anna Salai, barricades were strewn, and a traffic light collapsed in Sriperumbudur, reflecting the storm’s widespread impact. (Photo credit: ANI)

Despite government warnings, locals flocked to beaches and the Mamallapuram heritage site. High winds, heavy rains, and tides posed significant risks, particularly in coastal areas like Marakkanam, yet curiosity-driven visitors disregarded safety advisories. (Photo credit: Agencies)

Greater Chennai Corporation deployed 22,000 personnel, 1,686 motor pumps, and heavy-duty equipment to clear waterlogging and remove fallen trees. The efforts focused on 134 waterlogged spots and clearing debris to restore normalcy quickly. (Photo credit: ANI)

Reservoirs like Chembarambakkam swelled due to heavy inflows, appearing like an ocean. The authorities monitored water levels closely to prevent further flooding while urging residents to remain vigilant amidst the continuing storm. (Photo credit: ANI)

The cyclone led to tragic incidents, including the electrocution of a migrant worker attempting to withdraw money from an ATM. Public spaces like flyovers were used as parking lots to protect vehicles from potential flood damage, a precaution learned from the 2015 floods. (Photo credit: ANI)