The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high alert for coastal regions of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh as a new cyclonic storm, named Ditwah, intensifies over the Bay of Bengal. The system is rapidly developing and is expected to bring heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and strong winds to the southeastern coast over the next 48 to 72 hours.
The formation of Cyclone Ditwah follows a series of low-pressure systems and is prompting swift preparedness measures across both states.
Current Status and Projected Path
As of the latest IMD bulletin, the deep depression has organized into a Cyclonic Storm Ditwah and is positioned over the central and southwest Bay of Bengal.
- Intensity: Cyclone Ditwah is expected to further intensify into a Severe Cyclonic Storm before making landfall.
- Landfall Projection: While the exact point remains under close watch, current models suggest the cyclone is likely to cross the coast between Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and Nellore (Andhra Pradesh), potentially impacting major urban and agricultural areas.
- Wind Speed: Maximum sustained surface wind speeds are predicted to reach between 90-110 kmph near the core of the system.
Rainfall Warning and Impact
The IMD has issued a Red Alert for several districts, warning of widespread disruption:
- Tamil Nadu: Coastal districts including Chennai, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Cuddalore are forecast to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated pockets experiencing extremely heavy rainfall (over 200 mm) starting Friday.
- Andhra Pradesh: South Coastal Andhra Pradesh districts, particularly Nellore, Tirupati, and Prakasam, are also under a high alert for heavy rainfall, flooding, and strong gales.
- Impact: Authorities warn of potential localized flooding, inundation of low-lying areas, disruption of power and communication lines, and damage to crops and vulnerable structures.
Preparedness and Safety Measures
State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) in both Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have activated their emergency response systems:
- Fishermen Warning: Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the Bay of Bengal until further notice. Those already at sea are urged to return to the coast immediately.
- Evacuation: Low-lying and vulnerable coastal communities are being systematically evacuated to designated relief centers.
- NDRF Deployment: Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have been pre-positioned in critical districts to assist with rescue and relief operations.
Residents in the affected regions are advised to monitor official weather updates, avoid non-essential travel, and secure their homes and belongings.
