NE NEWS SERVICE
CHENNAI, NOV 27
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is closely monitoring the Deep Depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, which is expected to intensify into a Cyclonic Storm by Wednesday, posing a significant weather threat to the Tamil Nadu coast.
COURTESY: DEF PRO
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that the system is currently located about 240 km southeast of Trincomalee, 640 km south-southeast of Puducherry, and 720 km south-southeast of Chennai. Moving north-northwest, it is likely to impact the Sri Lankan coast over the next two days before advancing toward Tamil Nadu.
- Fisherfolk and mariners are being sensitised about the potential dangers through various government agencies
- The ICG has stationed Disaster Relief Teams at strategic locations including Chennai, Puducherry, Karaikal, and Tuticorin
In response, the ICG Regional Headquarters (East) is coordinating extensive measures to safeguard seafarers and coastal communities. Fisherfolk and mariners are being sensitised about the potential dangers through various government agencies. Coast Guard assets, including ships, aircraft, and radar stations, are broadcasting advisories through radio and loudspeakers, urging fishing boats at sea to return to harbor as rough sea conditions are anticipated.
Key measures being taken: Early warnings for mariners and fisherfolk
The ICG has been proactively broadcasting weather advisories and safety instructions via radio, radar stations, and loudspeakers on ships and aircraft. These advisories are being directed towards all seafarers, including fisherfolk, urging them to return to harbors or move to safer areas in light of rough sea conditions, strong winds, and heavy rains expected in the coming days.
Vigilance of ICG Assets
ICG ships and aircraft are on high alert and remain on standby to address any emergencies at sea. The Coast Guard is ensuring that all maritime resources are prepared to act swiftly in case of distress calls, providing immediate assistance wherever necessary.
Disaster relief teams in place
In anticipation of the storm’s impact, the ICG has stationed Disaster Relief Teams at strategic locations including Chennai, Puducherry, Karaikal, and Tuticorin. These teams are equipped with essential resources and personnel, ready to assist state authorities in dealing with contingencies and providing aid as needed.
Safety of coastal assets
The ICG is also focusing on the protection of coastal infrastructure, including oil rigs, port facilities, and coastal settlements. Regular monitoring and coordination with state authorities are being carried out to ensure safety along the coast.
Weather warning
Localized heavy rains, strong winds, and rough seas are expected to affect the Tamil Nadu coast, with the possibility of flooding in low-lying areas. Mariners and coastal residents are advised to take immediate precautions and stay informed through local weather updates.
Public advisory
The Indian Coast Guard urges all fishing vessels, mariners, and coastal communities to adhere to safety advisories issued by the government and relevant agencies. Fisherfolk are advised not to venture into the sea during this period, and those already at sea should return to safe harbors immediately.
The ICG will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates to ensure public safety.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has intensified its preparations as a deep depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal is expected to develop into a cyclonic storm today, posing a significant weather threat to the Tamil Nadu coast.
