The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh, with the cyclone likely to make landfall today evening

As per IMD, Cyclone Fengal to cross north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram close to Puducherry as a cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph during the evening of 30th November.

The Department of Revenue and Disaster Management has set up toll-free numbers 112 and 1077 to receive distress calls from the public. People can also seek help through the WhatsApp number 9488981070.

Passengers are advised to check with the railway authorities for further updates and to plan their journeys accordingly.

Cyclonic storm Fengal has commenced making landfall close to Puducherry and it may approximately take 4 hours for it to cross the coast completely, an India Meteorological Department (IMD) official said.

Cyclone Fengal is set to make landfall near Puducherry, affecting Tamil Nadu's coastal regions with heavy rain and flight disruptions. Authorities have issued warnings, urging fishermen to avoid the sea and closing tourist spots.

Waterlogging has been reported in several parts of Chennai as heavy rain lashed the region in the wake of Cyclone Fengal, which is approaching the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coastline. According to ANI,

Cyclone Fengal's approach has caused havoc in Chennai, with strong winds and rainfall uprooting trees and waterlogging roads. It is expected to cross the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast by evening. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have issued several advisories,

A red alert has been issued given heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in several parts of Tamil Nadu, south Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and interior Karnataka.

The cyclone is expected to make landfall this evening, with authorities issuing warnings for northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and southern Andhra Pradesh.