The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Cyclone Fengal is likely to continue inching toward west-southwestward, weakening into a deep depression within the next few hours. The cyclone was monitored by Doppler weather radars in Chennai and Karaikal.

The cyclonic storm has progressed towards Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts and is making landfall near Puducherry, an IMD official said. A red alert has been issued for 10 districts of Tamil Nadu.

Moving at a much reduced speed of 6 kmph than the previous 13 kmph, the centre of the cyclonic system would take another three to four hours to cross the coast, the Regional Meteorological Centre said.

Cyclonic storm Fengal commenced its landfall process close to Puducherry and it may approximately take 4 hours for it to cross the coast completely, PTI reported, citing an India Meteorological Department (IMD) official on Saturday.

Chennai experienced gusty winds and heavy rain on Saturday due to Cyclonic Storm Fengal, causing tree uprooting and waterlogging. Fengal is expected to cross the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast with wind speeds between 70-90 kmph.

The cyclone is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and disruptions across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

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.

Severe waterlogging witnessed in parts of Chennai district amid heavy rainfall. 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.

Ahead of cyclone Fengal (pronounced fenjal) making landfall early on Sunday near the Puducherry coast, Chennai and surrounding districts are pounded by heavy downpour accompanied by gutsy winds without any respite.