Cyclone Fengal Grounds Flights and Brings Torrential Rains to Tamil Nadu

The Chennai Airport has been closed until 7 p.m. as Cyclone Fengal approaches landfall near Puducherry. Severe weather conditions, including strong gusts and heavy rainfall, prompted this precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

 The disruption comes as Tamil Nadu prepares for the effects of the cyclone, with authorities issuing advisories to reduce hazards.  

Flights Are Diverted and Suspended

The cyclone has caused major disruptions in air traffic. Air India reported, “Flights to and from Chennai are getting affected due to inclement weather and heavy rains.” In a similar vein, IndiGo announced flight impacts in a number of locations, including Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Tuticorin, Madurai, Tirupati, and Visakhapatnam.

 Chennai Airport’s X handle confirming IndiGo's temporary suspension of all flights, said, “IndiGo Airlines @IndiGo6E has temporarily suspended all arrival and departure flight operations at Chennai Airport due to adverse weather conditions.”

 Due to bad weather, an IndiGo flight that was scheduled from Abu Dhabi to Chennai was also diverted to Bengaluru. Passengers have been urged to check their airlines for up-to-date information on their flights. 

Heavy Rainfall Batters Tamil Nadu

Cyclone Fengal’s presence over the Southwest Bay of Bengal has caused a lot of rain across northern Tamil Nadu. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), there will be “isolated heavy to very heavy rain with extremely heavy rain” at certain locations of Chennai, Chengalpattu, Villuppuram, Kancheepuram, and Puducherry. 

Additionally, significant rainfall is also anticipated in regions like Nagapattinam, Tiruvannamalai, and Salem, with the cyclone expected to bring extensive disruptions over the weekend. Doppler weather radars in Chennai and Sriharikota are keeping a close eye on the situation.

State Government Prepares for Cyclone’s Landfall

MK Stalin, the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, assessed the state's readiness and urged continuous monitoring. “The weather department has warned that there will be continuous rain for the next two-three days. The Tamil Nadu government is constantly monitoring and taking precautionary measures,” he reassured the locals. Relief camps have been set up in districts that are at risk, and ongoing relief efforts aim to mitigate damage caused by cyclones. 

Travel Advisory for Passengers

Due to ongoing cancellations and rescheduling, travelers have been advised to confirm flight statuses with airlines. Airlines are prioritizing safety and encouraging passengers to use official channels to be informed of any changes in real time.