Cyclone Ditwah Intensifies, Triggers Extreme Weather Alerts
Cyclone Ditwah has intensified over the southwest Bay of Bengal, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue ‘extremely heavy rainfall’ warnings for coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and South Andhra Pradesh. The system is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including gale-force winds and thunderstorms, over the next three days.
Key Takeaways
- Extremely heavy rainfall alert for coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and South Andhra Pradesh.
- Gale winds of 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph expected along North Tamil Nadu coast.
- Fishing operations completely suspended until December 1.
- Widespread thunderstorm and lightning warnings across South India.
Storm Track and Intensity
The cyclonic storm was located about 320 km south-southeast of Karaikal and is moving north-northwestwards. It is forecast to approach the North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh coasts by early Sunday morning.
A senior meteorologist from the Regional Meteorological Centre warned: “Isolated extremely heavy rain falls are highly likely over coastal Tamil Nadu for the next three days from Friday,” advising district administrations to remain on high alert.
Regional Impact and Warnings
Coastal Tamil Nadu & Puducherry: Extreme rainfall until Sunday, with gale-force winds and very rough sea conditions. Thunderstorm activity with lightning likely until December 1.
South Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Rayalaseema: Isolated extremely heavy rainfall on Sunday, with prolonged thunderstorm alerts until December 2.
Kerala & Mahe: Thunderstorms and lightning expected on Friday and Saturday.
Karnataka: South Interior Karnataka faces threats on Saturday-Sunday, while North Interior Karnataka is under warning for Sunday.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Likely to experience thunderstorms on Friday with gusty winds reaching 30-40 kmph.
Authorities have implemented a total fishing ban across affected coastal areas, emphasizing public safety as Cyclone Ditwah approaches the eastern coastline.
