Storm Causes Flooding in Sri Lanka Before Losing Strength
Cyclone Dithwah, which triggered widespread flooding in Sri Lanka, weakened into a deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal by Sunday. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system was located 35 km off the north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast by Monday morning.
Heavy Rainfall Alert Issued for Several Tamil Nadu Districts
IMD has forecast intense to very heavy rainfall for several districts including Tiruvallur, Ranipet, Kanchipuram, Chennai, Chengalpattu, and Vellore.
Moderate to heavy rainfall is also expected in Tirupattur, Tiruvannamalai, and Villupuram districts, as well as parts of Puducherry.
Wind Speed May Touch 80 kmph in Coastal Areas
Under the influence of the deep depression, wind speeds of 60–70 kmph are expected along the northern Tamil Nadu coast, Karaikal, and Puducherry.
Gusts may reach up to 80 kmph at isolated locations, IMD said.
Three Deaths Reported in Tamil Nadu Due to Cyclone Impact
The storm’s impact has already caused three deaths in Tamil Nadu. Meanwhile, 400 stranded Indians in Colombo were rescued and returned home on two special flights arranged by Indian authorities.
Storm Will Not Make Landfall on Indian Coast: IMD
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that Cyclone Dithwah will not make landfall in India, but will move parallel to the coastline.
He warned that although wind speed is not extremely high, the system may significantly affect agricultural activities in the region.
Indian Air Force Continues Rescue Operations in Sri Lanka
Indian Air Force helicopters continued rescue operations in Colombo on Monday.
A group of 57 people stranded in Irunguwatta were safely evacuated and transported to Matale as part of the ongoing humanitarian mission.