Cyclone Fengal forms after heavy rains lash Sri Lanka’s Northeast

The deep depression that caused significant disruption in Sri Lanka’s northeastern regions over the past few days has intensified into Cyclone Fengal, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

Centered about 240 kilometers northeast of Trincomalee late Thursday, the cyclone is moving towards the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast, with landfall expected near Mahabalipuram on Saturday morning.  

The cyclone’s indirect effects have already impacted Sri Lanka, with heavy rainfall recorded in Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and adjoining districts. Flooding in low-lying areas and disruptions to fisheries have prompted warnings from Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre. Authorities have advised fishermen to suspend operations and coastal residents to remain alert to rising water levels and strong winds.  

In India, schools and colleges in Tamil Nadu's Chennai, Chengalpattu, and Cuddalore districts, as well as in Puducherry, were closed on Friday as a precautionary measure. 

The IMD predicts wind speeds of 45-55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph, along with heavy to very heavy rainfall as the storm makes landfall.  

The cyclone, named Fengal by Saudi Arabia, follows international naming conventions set by the World Meteorological Organization to simplify storm tracking and communication. 

Meteorology Department and disaster relief teams remain on high alert, coordinating with Indian authorities to monitor Cyclone Fengal's trajectory and impact on the region.