Cyclone Fengal unleashed torrential rainfall across north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, with the Union Territory recording an unprecedented 48.4 cm of rain in just 24 hours on December 1. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the weather system, now a depression, is expected to drift westward over north Tamil Nadu and gradually weaken in the next 12 hours.
The relentless downpour disrupted daily life, paralyzing transport systems, including airports and bus terminals. A shocking video that has gone viral on social media captured floodwaters sweeping away multiple buses stationed at Uthangarai bus stand in Tamil Nadu. The footage, shared widely on platform X, drew widespread attention.
One user remarked, “Historic rainfalls in Uthangarai. All lakes and ponds are overflowing. Here’s the Salem to Tirupattur highway near Uthangarai bus stand.” The clip garnered over 192,000 views, with users expressing concern over the devastation. One commenter wrote, “Where are these vehicles coming from? I hope everyone is safe,” while another noted, “Such an intense downpour! The losses will be immense.” A third user added, “Hope the affected have insurance.”
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin visited Marakkanam in Villupuram to assess the cyclone’s impact, according to ANI. Rescue efforts are underway, and officials have evacuated hundreds from flood-ravaged regions.
Health Minister Ma Subramanian announced the establishment of 500 medical camps across affected districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengelpet, and Villupuram, to provide immediate assistance. However, the tragedy deepened with the deaths of three individuals in Chennai due to rain-related electrocution.
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