Cyclone 'Ditwah' nears Tamil Nadu, Sri Lanka counts deadly toll
What's the story
Cyclone "Ditwah" is moving toward the coast of Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh, India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the storm is currently 220km from Karaikal, 330km from Puducherry, and 430km south of Chennai, moving at 7 kmph. It is expected to make landfall by early morning on November 30. Satellite images reveal dense cloud cover over the southwest Bay of Bengal and Sri Lanka's coastline.
Weather warnings
IMD issues orange alert for northern Tamil Nadu
The name "Ditwah" means "lagoon" and was suggested by Yemen as part of the cyclone naming convention. The IMD has issued an orange alert for northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the adjoining areas of southern Andhra Pradesh. Extremely heavy rainfall is expected in the delta region and southern districts on November 29-30. Rough to very rough sea conditions are likely to continue till November 30.
Sri Lanka impact
Cyclone Ditwah wreaks havoc in Sri Lanka
Cyclone "Ditwah" has already caused widespread destruction in Sri Lanka, killing over 80 people and leaving more than 20 missing. The storm has displaced thousands of people, triggered landslides, and caused massive flooding in Colombo and other districts. Rescue operations are underway as teams work against time to save survivors from rooftops, trees, and submerged structures.
Humanitarian aid
India extends help to Sri Lanka
India has decided to send the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant for rescue and relief operations in Sri Lanka. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured support to India's "closest maritime neighbor." HADR relief supplies have been sent under Operation "Sagar Bandhu." "Guided by India's Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, India continues to stand firmly with Sri Lanka in its hour of need," he added.
State response
Tamil Nadu on high alert, CM reviews preparedness
In this regard, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has reviewed preparedness measures with district collectors and senior officials. A red alert has been issued for the southern and delta districts. Evacuations from low-lying areas are set to start immediately as part of precautionary measures against the impending cyclone landfall.
Disaster management
NDRF teams deployed across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry
Eight National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed across Tamil Nadu, with two teams in Puducherry. These include a Search Dog Unit to locate trapped individuals. IndiGo has canceled several flights due to cyclonic conditions, offering refunds or alternative travel options for affected passengers. Southern Railway has also canceled some trains and altered their origins due to weather conditions.