Cyclone Ditwah has triggered widespread disaster across Sri Lanka, leaving more than 123 people dead and over 130 missing after intense floods and landslides destroyed homes, roads and essential infrastructure. Rescue operations continue in several regions where families remain trapped or unaccounted for. Meteorological officials in Sri Lanka confirmed that although the cyclone system has exited the island, its indirect effects—including heavy rainfall, strong winds and dangerous sea conditions—are expected to last for several more hours. The devastation has prompted immediate humanitarian support, with emergency relief teams deployed to affected zones while hospitals struggle to manage rising medical needs and displacement cases.
IMD Forecasts Intensification as Storm Moves Toward Indian Coast
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high-risk warning as Cyclone Ditwah moves north-northwestward over the southwest Bay of Bengal, currently positioned around 480 km south of Chennai. IMD Director General Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra informed that the system is expected to re-emerge from Sri Lanka into the Bay of Bengal by the morning of November 29, where a slight intensification is likely before it approaches the Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coastline by early November 30. Authorities have been closely tracking the storm’s trajectory and have emphasized that the next 24–36 hours will be critical for impact assessment and emergency preparedness.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Expected Across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh
The IMD has predicted heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across southern Tamil Nadu and Cauvery delta districts including Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Villupuram, Chengalpattu and Puducherry. Coastal Andhra Pradesh–Yanam and Rayalaseema are also expected to witness isolated extremely heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds. The weather department has warned of the possibility of widespread flooding, urban waterlogging and flash-flood situations in hilly regions. With rough sea conditions expected, fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into coastal waters. Reports indicate that more than 54 flights have already been cancelled across Tamil Nadu due to deteriorating weather.
Emergency Response and Relief Support Initiated
Following the severe humanitarian crisis in Sri Lanka, India has dispatched relief materials including essential food supplies and emergency equipment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the tragic loss of lives and assured ongoing assistance to support local authorities and affected families. Meanwhile, disaster response teams across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh—including NDRF, state disaster units and medical support services—have been placed on high alert. Coastal residents are being advised to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel and follow official advisory bulletins from district administrations.
Public Safety Advisory and Risk Preparedness Measures
With authorities preparing for potential landfall and heavy rainfall impact, residents living in low-lying coastal regions have been urged to remain alert for evacuation instructions. Local administrations have arranged shelters, emergency relief centres and standby medical teams. Citizens are encouraged to secure essential supplies, avoid dangerous water bodies and stay connected to verified information channels. IMD emphasised that early preparedness and disciplined public response will be critical in minimizing risk and damage as the cyclone moves closer to land.
Cyclone Ditwah has already demonstrated severe destructive power in Sri Lanka, and with forecasts signalling further intensification, southern Indian states are preparing for high-impact weather conditions. Real-time monitoring, coordinated disaster management and public cooperation remain central to safeguarding lives and infrastructure. Authorities continue to track updates closely as the situation evolves.