Cyclone Fengal: No direct landfall in Bengal, but light rainfall expected throughout weekend

Cyclone Fengal, formed from a deep low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal on Friday, is expected to make landfall in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry today evening evening. The storm has already begun affecting coastal areas of West Bengal. Since Saturday morning, continuous rainfall has been reported in districts including Kolkata, South 24 Parganas, East Medinipur, and other coastal regions. The IMD has issued warnings for light to moderate rainfall, which may increase in intensity over the weekend.

In addition to the rain, the cyclone's peripheral effects have caused a rise in temperatures in South Bengal, with increased humidity reported in coastal districts. The IMD has forecast light to moderate showers to continue throughout the weekend, with occasional thunderstorms in some areas. The wind speed in these regions is expected to range between 40-50 km/h, but no direct landfall is predicted for West Bengal, with the storm’s core passing to the south.

The state government of West Bengal has put disaster response measures in place. Authorities have been monitoring water levels in rivers and reservoirs, with a focus on flood-prone regions. No evacuation orders have been issued in Bengal as of now, but precautionary measures have been taken to address potential waterlogging and disruptions. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, and shipping activities along the coastline are being monitored. Relief teams are on standby to assist with any emergencies caused by the rainfall or other weather-related incidents.