Cyclone Ditwah, a rapidly intensifying weather system over the Bay of Bengal, has now moved dangerously close to the Indian coastline. According to the latest forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cyclone is racing north-northwest and is currently positioned around 220 km from Karaikal. It continues to head steadily toward the north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh coasts, where it is expected to make landfall in the early hours of November 30.
Authorities have sounded a high-alert across vulnerable districts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh as the impact of Ditwah is expected to be severe both in terms of wind intensity and widespread rainfall. This marks the second major weather threat for the region this month, prompting urgent review of preparedness measures and deployment of emergency resources.
Severe Destruction in Sri Lanka: Over 40 Dead, Many Missing
Before approaching India, Cyclone Ditwah carved a path of destruction across Sri Lanka. The island nation reported catastrophic flooding, with more than 40 lives lost due to sudden water surges and landslides triggered by the heavy rains. Over 20 people are still missing, while thousands have been displaced as their homes were submerged or washed away.
Entire regions in Sri Lanka have witnessed dangerous landslides, severely impacting the infrastructure and connectivity. Rescue teams there have been working tirelessly, battling treacherous weather to save survivors stranded on rooftops, trees, and semi-submerged buildings. The humanitarian situation remains urgent, with rehabilitation efforts expected to take weeks or even longer.
Indian authorities are closely monitoring the cyclone’s evolving trajectory, acknowledging the destruction already caused and the potential risks facing the Indian coast.
Tamil Nadu Government on High Alert
Tamil Nadu’s southern and delta districts remain under close watch as per IMD’s severe weather bulletins. The government has issued directives to district administrations to ramp up readiness at all levels.
Key measures taken include:
- Deployment of Disaster Response Teams: National and State Disaster Response Forces have been stationed in coastal and flood-prone zones.
- Evacuation Plans Activated: Coastal residents and those living in low-lying areas are being shifted to safer locations.
- Relief Camps Prepared: Essential supplies including food, drinking water, first aid, and emergency kits have been stocked at shelters.
- Monitoring of Water Bodies: Reservoirs and river systems are being observed for overflow threats with controlled water release planned if needed.
- Public Safety Advisory: Fishermen have been strictly warned against venturing into the sea, with ports hoisting high cyclone warning signals.
Schools and colleges in several coastal districts may remain shut if conditions worsen, ensuring public safety above all.
South Andhra Pradesh Also Preparing for Impact
Ditwah is not just a concern for Tamil Nadu; south Andhra Pradesh districts such as Nellore and Tirupati are also expected to face intense rainfall and high tidal waves. The Andhra Pradesh Disaster Management Authority has instructed officials to ensure uninterrupted power backup at hospitals and safeguard fishing harbors, salt pans, and coastal settlements.
IMD Forecast: Intense Rainfall, Strong Winds & Coastal Threat
The meteorological department has predicted:
- Extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places along the north Tamil Nadu coast
- Wind speeds likely exceeding 80-100 kmph near areas closer to landfall
- High sea conditions with potential storm surges impacting the shoreline
- Risk of uprooted trees and damaged infrastructure
In addition, transportation especially air and train services may be disrupted in the affected belt if weather deteriorates rapidly.
Public Safety: The Top Priority
With Ditwah advancing quickly, the unified focus of authorities remains minimizing loss of life. Disaster control rooms have been activated 24/7 to respond to emergency calls. People are being urged to stay indoors when the storm nears landfall and follow official updates only from IMD, state governments, and emergency agencies.
As Cyclone Ditwah approaches the Indian coastline after leaving devastation in Sri Lanka, coordinated efforts are underway to ensure preparedness, protection, and timely response. The next 24 hours are crucial for Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, with communities bracing for the cyclone’s impact while hoping the worst can still be prevented through proactive safety measures.
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