Cyclone Fengal: India’s South Braces for Impact as Storm Makes Landfall

Preparations Underway as Cyclone Fengal Nears Landfall

Bengaluru: Schools in India’s south have been shut, and hundreds of people have been relocated to storm shelters in preparation for the arrival of Cyclone Fengal, which is expected to make landfall in Tamil Nadu state on Saturday. The storm, which has already claimed at least 12 lives in Sri Lanka, is forecast to bring sustained winds of 70-80 kilometres per hour (43-50 mph) and surging waves of one metre (three feet) to low-lying coastal areas.

Cyclone Fengal: A Growing Menace in the Indian Ocean

Cyclones, also known as tropical cyclones or typhoons, are a regular and deadly threat in the northern Indian Ocean. They are the equivalent of hurricanes in the North Atlantic or typhoons in the northwestern Pacific. The Indian Ocean is particularly prone to cyclones, which can bring devastating winds and flooding to coastal communities.

Climate Change: A Growing Factor in Cyclone Intensity

Scientists have warned that storms like Cyclone Fengal are becoming more powerful due to climate change, which is driven by the burning of fossil fuels. Warmer ocean surfaces release more water vapour, providing additional energy for storms, strengthening winds. A warming atmosphere also allows storms to hold more water, boosting heavy rainfall.

Precautions in Place to Minimize Damage

To prepare for the storm’s arrival, schools and colleges in numerous districts across Tamil Nadu have been shut, and at least 471 people have been relocated to relief camps. Fishing crews have also been urged to stay off the water, and a flood risk warning has been issued for low-lying coastal areas.

A Safer Future through Better Forecasting and Evacuation Planning

While cyclones like Cyclone Fengal can be deadly, better forecasting and more effective evacuation planning have dramatically reduced death tolls in recent years. This is due in part to advances in weather forecasting technology and improved emergency response measures.

Conclusion

As Cyclone Fengal makes landfall in Tamil Nadu, it is essential to remember that storms like this are a growing threat in the Indian Ocean. Climate change is a critical factor in their increased intensity, and it is crucial that we take steps to mitigate its effects. By staying informed, taking necessary precautions, and supporting climate change mitigation efforts, we can reduce the impact of storms like Cyclone Fengal and build a safer, more resilient future.

FAQs

* What is Cyclone Fengal?
Cyclone Fengal is a powerful storm that is forecast to make landfall in Tamil Nadu state, India, on Saturday.
* What are the storm’s forecasted conditions?
The storm is expected to bring sustained winds of 70-80 kilometres per hour (43-50 mph) and surging waves of one metre (three feet) to low-lying coastal areas.
* How many people have been affected?
At least 471 people have been relocated to relief camps, and schools and colleges in numerous districts across Tamil Nadu have been shut.
* What is the cause of the storm’s increased intensity?
Climate change, driven by the burning of fossil fuels, is a major factor in the increased intensity of storms like Cyclone Fengal.