The severe weather system, Cyclone Ditwah, has significantly weakened into a deep depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal. This transition offers a reprieve to Tamil Nadu’s northern areas that were bracing for intense rainfall. The focus now shifts to the widespread devastation in Sri Lanka, where the death toll has tragically climbed to 334, with 370 people still unaccounted for.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has declared the ongoing extreme weather the nation’s worst-ever natural disaster, promising comprehensive state assistance for rehabilitation. He emphasized that the existing State of Public Emergency is strictly for disaster response and does not impinge on civil liberties. Urgent efforts are underway to restore critical infrastructure like water, electricity, and communication networks that have been crippled across many parts of the island.
Rescue operations are being bolstered by Indian teams working in tandem with Sri Lankan forces. These joint efforts include evacuations, essential supply distribution, and providing emergency aid. The cyclone, which moved parallel to the Tamil Nadu coast, lost its strength, diminishing the immediate threat of widespread heavy showers. Rainfall data shows Karaikal received 19 cm and Sembanarkovil 17 cm.
Looking ahead, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry can expect light to moderate rainfall with isolated thunderstorms on Monday. Chennai may experience moderate rain at a few locations. Reflecting the weather concerns, Puducherry has declared a holiday for all schools on Monday. No school holiday has been announced for Chennai by the Tamil Nadu government. Andhra Pradesh’s Nellore and Annamayya districts will also observe school closures.