Cyclone Nivar Updates: Southern Railways resumes suburban services in Chennai; IMD issues yellow alert in 7 Karnataka districts

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

As Cyclone Nivar weakens, fisherfolk hope to return to sea

As ‘‘very severe’’ cyclonic storm Nivar, which crossed the coasts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on Wednesday, weakened into ‘‘severe’’ cyclonic storm, the fisherfolk hope to return to their work soon even as the disaster has not affected the community much.

The very severe cyclonic storm Nivar, which originated in Southwest Bay of Bengal moved northwest direction and crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts with a wind speed of 9 kmph from 11:30 pm on Wednesday night to 2:30 pm today, IMD informed.

“We are happy that cyclone did not affect us. A day ahead, we shifted all our boats and fishing net to a safe zone. Each boat costs ₹ 2 lakh and a bundle of fishing net is for ₹ 70,000. We are thankful to God that our property is safe now,” Sakthi Vel, one of the fishermen from Puducherry’‘s Eraiyanur village, told ANI.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Torrential rains in Andhra Pradesh leave one dead

Normal life was thrown out of gear as heavy to extremely heavy rainfall ranging from 6 cm to 30 cm battered at least half of Andhra Pradesh under the influence of cyclone Nivar, leaving one dead.

Another farmer was feared washed away while NDRF personnel rescued two others from a reservoir in Chittoor district.

According to the State Disaster Management Authority, SPS Nellore, Chittoor, Kadapa, Krishna, Prakasam and East Godavari districts received heavy to extremely heavy rainfall at more than 177 places. Other districts like Anantapuramu, Kurnool, Guntur and West Godavari were also receiving moderate to heavy rainfall under Nivars impact. 

-PTI

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

DMK President M K Stalin visits Velachery area in Chennai

DMK President M K Stalin on November 26 visited Velachery area in Chennai and reviewed the situation in water-logged & residential areas, affected by Cyclone Nivar. Stalin also distributed food and clothes to the locals, reports news agency ANI.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

NDRF assigns 25 teams in Tamil Nadu, Andhra, Puducherry

Randeep Rana, DIG NDRF told  ANI  that 25 NDRF teams were assigned, 15 in Tamil Nadu, 4 in Puducherry and 6 in Andhra Pradesh. “Cyclone is weakening gradually but it has potential to cause further damage. Precautionary measures being taken,” he added.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

IMD predicts heavy rainfall over coastal parts of Tamil Nadu, Andhra and Telangana

As per the IMD, heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places likely over north Tamil Nadu, remaining districts of Andhra Pradesh and southeast Telangana today. Fishermen are advised not to venture into SE and adjacent WC Bay of Bengal along & off TN-Puducherry and south AP coast till tonight, reports MoneyControl.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Southern Railway resumes suburban train services

The Southern Railway has resumed the suburban train services on a limited basis, The Hindu reported. The press release said, “The Workmen Suburban train services, which was suspended earlier in view of Cyclone Nivar, would be operated from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.”

“Train services in three routes including Chennai Moore Market Complex – Arakkonam, Chennai Moore Market Complex – Gummudipoondi and Chennai Beach-Chengalpattu would be operated every one hour in up and down directions,” the report added.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

NDRF personnel conduct rescue and relief ops in Puducherry

#CycloneNivar Update
26/11/20
🟠Post Cyclone
🟠@NDRFHQ on ground
🟠@ Work 24x7
🟠HELPING SENIOR CITIZENS
🟠Puducherry,TN@ndmaindia @PMOIndia @HMOIndia @BhallaAjay26 @PIBHomeAffairs @ANI @pibchennai @pibvijayawada pic.twitter.com/hsqiSeOVJW

— ѕαtчα prαdhαnसत्य नारायण प्रधान ସତ୍ୟ ପ୍ରଧାନ (@satyaprad1) November 26, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Nivar weakens into cyclonic storm

The severe cyclonic storm Nivar weakened into a cyclonic storm over coastal Tamil Nadu and it is set to further weaken into a deep depression, the India Meteorological Department said on Thursday.

“Severe cyclonic storm Nivar weakened into a cyclonic storm over north coastal Tamil Nadu. The cyclonic storm Nivar would continue to move northwestwards and weaken further into a deep depression during next 06 hours and into a depression by subsequent 06 hours,” the IMD said on its twitter handle.

Very severe cyclonic storm Nivar made landfall near Puducherry in the wee hours of today even as heavy rains lashed Tamil Nadu and the union territory leading to inundation and uprooting of trees.

Nivar also weakened into a severe cyclonic storm after it crossed coast near Puducherry.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Tamil Nadu CM visits water-logged areas in Chennai

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam visits water-logged areas in Chennai to review the situation after heavy rains battered the state

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam visits water-logged areas in Chennai to review the situation after heavy rains due to #CycloneNivar pic.twitter.com/ULwZgklnN6

— ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Orange alert issued in Andhra, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert along the coast of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh as parts of the two states and Union Territory receive heavy rainfall today, reports The Indian Express.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Visuals from Chennai’s Madipakkam area

Tamil Nadu: Water logging in Chennai's Madipakkam area after rainfall last night.#CycloneNivar pic.twitter.com/WyetIH5Z8U

— ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Yellow alert in Karnataka districts: IMD

The ‘very severe’ cyclonic storm Nivar, which is moving towards northwest direction is excepted to turn into a normal cyclonic storm in the South Interior districts of Karnataka, India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bengaluru said on Thursday.

Bangalore city and neighbourhood are expected to receive light to moderate spells of rain with intermittent heavy spells of rainfall at a few places during the next 48 hours, informed IMD.

Meanwhile, Bengaluru urban and rural parts, Kolar, Chikkaballapur, Tumakuru, Mandya, and Ramanagara districts of Karnataka are likely to witness moderate spells of rain on November 26. IMD has issued a yellow alert in these areas.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Three people killed in rain-related incidents in Chennai

At least three people have died and three people have been injured in rain-related incidents in Chennai and surrounding areas after heavy rains lashed parts of Tamil Nadu, as cyclone Nivar made its landfall near Puducherry.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Over 470 people evacuated in Vellore

In Vellore, a total of five huts were damaged, 15 trees and four electricity poles fell due to the wind, approximately 14 acres of banana plantation were damaged, reported The Hindu . A total of 474 persons have been accommodated in 16 relief centres.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Light showers in Bengaluru

Bengaluru on Thursday witnessed cloudy weather and light showers. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted generally cloudy sky with moderate rain in the city.

Karnataka: Bengaluru witnesses cloudy weather and light showers.

The India Meteorological Department has predicted generally cloudy sky with moderate rain in the city. #CycloneNivar pic.twitter.com/STxqYKMsj5

— ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Bus, metro services resume in Chennai 

The tropical storm, which originated in Bay of Bengal, forced authorities in the southern states to declare a public holiday till Thursday, close the Chennai airport and metro services.

Metro services in Chennai, shut ahead of landfall, resumed from 12 pm; bus services also resumed. The cyclone “has completely moved to the land, and “it has weakened into a severe cyclonic storm; it would further weaken into a cyclonic storm in the next six hours,” Dr S Balachandran, Director at Chennai’s Meteorological Department, said.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

No casualties reported in Tamil Nadu so far 

Cyclone Nivar made landfall near Puducherry in the early hours of Thursday, bringing heavy rains to the Union Territory and neighbouring Tamil Nadu, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Nivar weakened into a severe cyclonic storm after it crossed the coast. 

There were no reports of loss of life in Tamil Nadu so far due to the cyclone which uprooted trees. Incidents of wall collapse were reported from some parts of the state.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Closely monitoring situation in TN, Puducherry: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the Centre is closely monitoring the situation in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in the wake of Cyclone Nivar which made landfall near Puducherry last night.

Shah said that the Centre has assured all help from the Centre.

We are closely monitoring the situation in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in the wake of Cyclone Nivar. Have spoken to CM Shri @EPSTamilNadu and CM Shri @VNarayanasami and assured all possible help from the centre. NDRF teams already on ground to help people in need.

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 26, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

NDRF on ground in Puducherry

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel clear uprooted trees in Kamaraj Nagar area of Puducherry.

Puducherry: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel clear uprooted trees in Kamaraj Nagar area#CycloneNivar pic.twitter.com/OcNNmPCL9l

— ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

E Palaniswai to visit cyclone-affected areas in Cuddalore 

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswai will leave for Cuddalore from Chennai at 11am on Thursday, Times of India reported. He may visit affected areas in Chennai before proceeding to Cuddalore, the worst affected by cyclone Nivar.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Chennai airport resumes operation

Officials at the Chennai International Airport have resumed flights services to and from the city. Operations at Chennai airport had been suspended from 7 pm on Wednesday to 9 am on Thursday owing to adverse weather conditions in Chennai.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Chennai airport suspends flight ops till 9 am today

Officials at the Chennai International Airport have announced that flight operations will continue to remain suspended till 9 am on Thursday, keeping in mind the safety of the traveller amid the prevailing weather. 

The official Twitter handle of AAI Chennai Airport said “The closure of Chennaiairport due to cyclone Nivar stands extended till 9.00 hrs of 26.11.2020, on assessing the prevailing climatic conditions and taking passenger safety as top priority. The inconvenience caused is deeply regretted.”

The closure of #AAI #Chennaiairport due to #CycloneNivar stands extended till 0900hrs of 26.11.2020, on assessing the prevailing climatic conditions and taking passenger safety as top priority. The inconvenience caused is deeply regretted. @AAI_Official @pibchennai

— Chennai (MAA) Airport (@aaichnairport) November 26, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Public holiday in 16 Tamil Nadu districts 

The Tamil Nadu government has declared a public holiday in 16 districts on Thursday. These include Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpet, Tiruvallur, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Tiruvannamalai, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Kallakurichi, Tirupattur, Vellore and Ranipet.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Cuddalore received maximum rainfall at 246 mm: IMD

According to the IMD, Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu received 246 mm of rainfall between 8.30 am Wednesday and 2.30 am Thursday while Puducherry received 237 mm, Chennai 89 mm, Karaikal 86 mm, and Nagapatnam 63 mm during the same period.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Cyclone Nivar to further weaken in next three hrs: IMD

Puducherry continued to receive rainfall as cyclone Nivar made landfall on Wednesday morning. Cyclone will now move northwestwards and weaken further into a cyclonic storm during the next three hours, says India Meteorological Department (IMD)

#Puducherry continues to receive rainfall #CycloneNivar to move northwestwards and weaken further into a cyclonic storm during the next 3 hours, says India Meteorological Department (IMD) pic.twitter.com/xC3SUsn0Ro

— ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2020

sCyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Cyclone Nivar weakens into ‘severe cyclonic storm’: IMD

Cyclone Nivar made landfall near Puducherry in the early hours on Thursday, bringing heavy rains to the Union Territory and neighbouring Tamil Nadu, officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

“Very severe cyclonic storm Nivar weakened into a ‘severe cyclonic storm’ after crossing the coast near Puducherry,” according to the weather agency.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Chennai residents park cars on flyover

Before the very severe cyclonic storm NIvar made landfall, residents of one of the worst hit areas during the 2015 deluge in Chennai found a flyover
the safer place to park their cars to avert their vehicles from getting submerged. Determined to avoid a repeat of the 2015 scenario when scores of four-wheelers were filled with flood waters, several residents of Madipakkam in the southern part of the city left their vehicles on the margins of the bridge overlooking the Mass Rapid Transit System railway station in nearby Velacherry.
     

With the owners one after the other parking their vehicles, the bridge was lined up with swanky cars on both sides of the overpass presenting a never before seen spectacle, civic workers said.

PTI

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Landfall continues, tweets IMD

Very severe cyclonic storm Nivar now lies about 50 km east-southeast of Cuddalore, about 40 km east southeast of Puducherry.LANDFALL PROCESS CONTINUES.CENTRE OF CYCLONE TO CROSS COAST NEAR PUDUCHERRY WITHIN NEXT 3 HOURS WITH WIND SPEED OF 120-130 KMPH GUSTING TO 145 KMPH. pic.twitter.com/5SJTQexHcT

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Landfall process starts, says IMD

As per the IMD’s 10.30 pm bulletin, Nivar touched the coast and has started the landfall process. “Very severe cyclonic storm Nivar now lies about 50 km east-southeast of Cuddalore, about 40 km east southeast of Puducherry. .Centre of cyclone to cross coast near Puducherry  within next 3 hours,” it said

Very severe cyclonic storm Nivar now lies about 50 km east-southeast of Cuddalore, about 40 km east southeast of Puducherry.Landfall process commence.Centre of cyclone to cross coast near puducherry within next 3 hours. visit https://t.co/XZd6NinWQK pic.twitter.com/aDT1MZJYbZ

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Intensity of cyclone to decrease after 3 am, says IMD Chennai

The intensity of the cyclone will decrease after 3 am but rainfall is expected to continue tomorrow, news agency ANI quotes S Balachandran, IMD Chennai as saying.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Landfall process expected to start soon

In its 9.30 pm bulletin, the IMD said that the very severe cyclonic storm lay 60 km east of Cuddalore and 55 km southeast of Puducherry. It would likely cross the coast close to Puducherry around midnight and the landfall proess is expected to start in an hour, as per the bulletin.

இன்னும் ஒரு மணி நேரத்திற்குள் #Nivar_cyclone கரையை கடக்க ஆரம்பிக்கும்: இந்திய வானிலை ஆய்வு மையம் pic.twitter.com/bxgRVvlPng

— PIB in Tamil Nadu (@pibchennai) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Do’s and Dont’s for cyclone

#Cyclone | Be Prepared for #CycloneNivar with these do's and don'ts! #NivarCyclone #Nivar #CycloneAlert pic.twitter.com/THbO3C8E2E

— NDMA India | राष्ट्रीय आपदा प्रबंधन प्राधिकरण 🇮🇳 (@ndmaindia) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Nivar likely to cross TN, Puducherry coasts at midnight: IMD

Very severe cyclonic storm Nivar is likely to cross the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mamallapuram around Puducherry  at midnight says, IMD.

According to The Hindu, IMD Chennai has warned that Cyclone Nivar is likely to maintain cyclonic intensity for about six hours after ladnfall. The cyclone is likely to weaken gradually  and hence Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, Tirupattur, Vellore districtsof Tamil Nadu and Chittoor, Kurnool, Prakasam and Cuddappa districts of Andhra Pradesh can expect extremely heavy rainfall, it said.

Very severe cyclonic storm Nivar now lies about 80 km east-southeast of Cuddalore, about 85 km east southeast of Puducherry.Very likely cross tamil nadu and puducherry coasts between karaikal and mamallapuram around puducherry during mid-night of 25th midnight. pic.twitter.com/z80Be0TPyg

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

#PHOTOS: Heavy rainfall causes waterlogging in several areas of Puducherry

Heavy rainfall causes waterlogging in several areas of Puducherry; visuals from near Gandhi Statue Beach Road. #CycloneNivar pic.twitter.com/2ZZMVcrDPH

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Railways cancels over dozen special trains, offers full refund

The Railways has cancelled over a dozen special trains on 25 and 26 November scheduled to either originate from and terminate in the southern states of the country in view of the impending cyclone Nivar, and offered full refund, reports PTI.

‘Nivar’ is forecast intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm and is likely to cross the coast between Tamil Nadu and Puducherry before dawn on Thursday, the India Meteorological Department said.

Owing to the onset of Cyclone NIVAR, Southern Railway has announced cancellation of several special train services to destinations that are likely to be affected by unprecedented rains/cyclonic landfall and to other destinations due to operational difficulties.

For the trains fully cancelled by Railways in view of Cyclone NIVAR, full refund of fare will be granted on ticket cancellations. The time limit for availing refunds has also been extended to six months from the date of journey, the Railways said.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Heavy rainfall lashes Puducherry ahead of Nivar’s landfall

#WATCH | Rain lashes Puducherry ahead of the expected landfall of #CycloneNivar; visuals from Shivaji Statue area. pic.twitter.com/dwOEAdZpyZ

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

NDRF deploys 30 teams on ground in Tamil Nadu, Pondy and Andhra

The National Disaster Response Force has deployed 30 teams on the ground in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh as the cyclone moves ahead from the Bay of Bengal towards the coastal areas, reports PTI.

Meanwhile, 20 teams have been kept on standby at Vijaywada in Andhra Pradesh, Cuttack in Odisha and Thrissur in Kerala.

NDRF chief SN Pradhan says all preparations have been done to “tide over the worst challenge that is put up by the cyclone”.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Ashok Leyland closes Chennai plant as precautionary measure

 Hinduja Group flagship Ashok Leyland has closed the Chennai plant as a precautionary measure in view of Cyclone Nivar which is expected to cross the coast later tonight, a company official said on Wednesday.

The city-based heavy commercial vehicle manufacturer expects to resume operations at the facility from November 27, company President-Human Resources, NV Balachandar said.

“Our Chennai plant is closed due to the cyclone as a precautionary measure. We expect to resume operations from November 27….as per the emergency protocols all preventive measures for the cyclone are in place,” he said in a statement.

“At the moment, we do not foresee any delay for fulfilling our existing order book,” he said.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Pondy govt declares Thursday as public holiday

The territorial administration declared on Thursday a public holiday for all departments and educational institutions in Puducherry and Karaikal regions, reports The Hindu.

Already, Wednesday was a public holiday. With the cyclonic weather continuing, the administration declared Thursday too as a public holiday for departments and educational institutions. The holiday is declared under the Negotiable Instruments Act.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Over one lakh evacuated from Tamil Nadu: NDRF

Over one lakh people have been evacuated across Tamil Nadu and more than 1,000 people have been evacuated in Puducherry, says NDRF Director-General SN Pradhan

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Visual from Marina Beach

Visuals from Chennai’s Marina Beach with strong winds as the cyclone is expected to make landfall at midnight

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Visuals from Marina Beach in Chennai as strong winds hit the region, sea turns rough.

#CycloneNivar is likely to cross between Mamallapuram and Karaikal during midnight today and early hours of 26th November, as per IMD pic.twitter.com/yBqgARoirS

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Landfall may happen after 2 am on November 26, says NDRF chief

“Cyclone Nivar may make landfall after 2 am on 26 November. Over one lakh people have been evacuated across Tamil Nadu and more than 1,000 people have been evacuated in Puducherry,” said NDRF chief SN Pradhan

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Cyclone Nirav intensified into ‘very severe cyclonic storm’

Cyclone Nivar has intensified into a very severe cyclonic storm and lay centered about 90 km east-southeast of Cuddalore and 150 km east-southeast of Puducherry, according to IMD.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Cyclone Nivar likely to cross coast tonight, says IMD

Gusty winds and rains lashed parts of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday leaving several areas inundated and authorities have housed over one lakh people in shelters as severe cyclone ‘Nivar’ hurtled towards the coast.

‘Nivar would intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm and it is likely to cross the coast between Tamil Nadu and Puducherry before dawn on Thursday, the India Meteorological Department said.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Taken all precautionary measure to tackle cyclone impact: NLC India

NLC India Ltd on Wednesday said it has taken all precautionary measures at its facilities and ensured preparedness in sectors, including mining and power generation, in view of cyclone Nivar all set to cross the Eastern coast.

Individual teams have been set up to monitor and tackle the situation. A control room, which will function round the clock, has also been set up to coordinate with government authorities, an official told PTI.

“The company is also ready to meet the requirements of safety of the people in neighbouring villages besides extending support to the district administration,” he said.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Chennai Metro will end operations at 8 pm today

Chennai Metro Rail has said that the last Metro Train Services today (25.11.2020) from all terminals will leave at 07.00 pm so as to end the train operations at 08.00 pm. Train service will resume tomorrow depending on the weather conditions.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Southern Railways announces train diversions

Here are the details:

1. 02296 Danapur – KSR Bengaluru Special train
2. 02577 Darbhanga – Mysuru Special train
3. 02642 Shalimar – Thiruvananthapuram Central
4. 02509 Bangalore Cantonment – Guwahati Special train
5. 02295 KSR Bengaluru – Danapur Special train
6. 03210 Yeswantpur – Danapur Special train
7. 02512 Thiruvananthapuram Central – Gorakhpur Special train

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Chennai Airport to remain shut from 7 pm today

Due to Cyclone Nivar aircraft operations at AAI Chennai Airport will remain suspended from 1900hrs of 25.11.2020 (today) to 0700hrs of 26.11.2020 (tomorrow), reports ANI. The decision has been taken considering the safety aspect of passengers and the severity of approching Cyclone.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Severe thunderstorm with heavy rain to occur over 8 districts, says TN govt

 The Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority has said that a severe thunderstorm with heavy rain is likely to occur over Nagapattinam, Karaikal, Puducherry, Myladuthurai, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Chengalpattu and Chennai districts of Tamil Nadu within the next three hours.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Heavy rains lash Mamallapuram

Heavy rains lash Mamallapuram town in Tamil Nadu ahead of the expected landfall of cyclone Nivar at midnight and early hours of Thursday.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Strong winds blow in Mamallapuram ahead of the expected landfall of #CycloneNivar between Karaikal and Mamallapuram during midnight today and early hours of November 26. pic.twitter.com/Wq48STEUCO

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Puducherry administration braces for cyclone

The Puducherry government has said the administrative machinery is fully geared up to meet any exigency arising out of the situation. The union territory has been experiencing intermittent moderate rain influenced by the cyclonic storm.

In a video message, Lt. Governor Kiran Bedi appealed to the residents to stay indoors. She also asked people to move to safer places wherever there is a need.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

More than 30,000 people evacuated from Tamil Nadu, 7,000 from Puducherry: NDRF

“About more than 30,000 people have been evacuated from Tamil Nadu and 7,000 people have been evacuated from Puducherry. Central, state and local governments are working in tandem. All efforts are being made to minimise damage,” said NDRF chief SN Pradhan on Wednesday.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

#WATCH | Indian Coast Guard vessel deployed off Chennai coast with disaster relief items

#WATCH Indian Coast Guard vessel deployed off Chennai coast with disaster relief items, in view of #CycloneNivar

(Source: Indian Coast Guard) pic.twitter.com/Xs1rU4ZxA0

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Southern Railway cancels seven trains for tomorrow

Southern Railway cancels seven trains on November 26. #CycloneNivar https://t.co/DOLKsHdEi4 pic.twitter.com/3nhWtb2OUr

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Cyclone expected to take more time to make landfall, says report

The cyclone is expected to take more time to make landfall as it is moving slower than usual. A report by The Times of India has quoted a former IMD official as saying that cyclones usually move at 10-20 kmph but Nivar is moving at an average speed of 5-6 kmph.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Army ready to deploy 14 rescue teams

The Indian Army is ready to deploy 12 Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) teams and two Engineer Task Force units during Cyclone Nivar.

“The Army is ready to assist the government and civil administration in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, maintaining communication with concerned officials”, a defence press release said

Army ready to assist govt & civil administration in Tamil Nadu & Puducherry to face #CycloneNivar, maintaining communication with officials. Twelve humanitarian assistance & disaster relief teams & two engineer task forces ready for deployment: Southern Command, Indian Army pic.twitter.com/CPiHojBap4

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Full refund on ticket cancellation, six months time limit for claiming: Southern Railway

The Southern Railway has announced cancellation of several special train services to destinations that are likely to be affected by cyclone Nivar and to other destinations due to operational difficulties

For the trains fully cancelled by Railways in view of cycone nivar, full refund of fare will be granted on ticket cancellations. The time limit for availing refunds has also been extended to six months from the date of journey, the Indian Express reported.

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

Cyclone Nivar to cross coast tonight or on Thursday morning: IMD

Severe cyclonic storm ‘Nivar’ will intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm over the next 12 hours and cross the coast between Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Wednesday midnight or early Thursday, the India Meteorological Department said.

In its latest bulletin on Wednesday, the IMD said NIVAR over southwest Bay of Bengal moved west-northwestwards with a speed of 07 kmph during past six hours and lay centred at 0530 hrs of today at about 290 km east-southeast of Cuddalore, about 300 km east southeast of Puducherry and 350 km south southeast of Chennai.

“It is very likely to intensify further into a very severe cyclonic storm during next 12 hours,” the IMD said.

-PTI

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Tamil Nadu CM visits  Chembarambakkam reservoir to review situation

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami visits Chembarambakkam reservoir, whose shutters were released at noon today, to review the situation.

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami visits Chembarambakkam Lake to review the situation. https://t.co/NL1l63dp5O pic.twitter.com/iI8Tu5vjgE

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

Cyclone Nivar LATEST Updates

BJP cancels programmes under ‘Vetrivel Yatra’

Tamil Nadu BJP chief L Murugan says the party has cancelled programmes under the “Vetrivel Yatra” in Nagapattinam, Thiruvarur and two other places in the state due to Cyclone Nivar, reports ANI. The tour, which started on 6 November, will now culminate on 5 December at Thiruchendur, said Murugan.

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26 flights cancelled in Chennai

Twenty-six flights from/to Chennai cancelled due to Cyclone Nivar, says the Chennai Airport, reports ANI.

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Tamil Nadu govt declares public holiday tomorrow in 13 districts

The Tamil Nadu government has declared a public holiday for 13 districts tomorrow (26 November), local news reports suggest. These districts includes Chennai. More details awaited.

The 13 district are: Chennai, Vellore, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Chengalpet, Kancheepuram, Thanjavur, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvannamalai, Ariyalur, and Perambalur districts, The Indian Express reports.

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Two trains cancelled today, 3 tomorrow: Southern Railways

Ahead of the Cyclone Nivar’s landfall, two trains have been fully cancelled for today, three for tomorrow and one for 28 November, as per the Southern Railways, reports ANI.  A total of five trains partially cancelled. 

Two trains fully cancelled for today, three for tomorrow and one for 28th November. A total of five trains partially cancelled: Southern Railways #CycloneNivar pic.twitter.com/227m3hqAaJ

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

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Maximum impact of cyclone to be felt in Puducherry: IMD

IMD Director General of Meteorology Mrutyunjay Mohapatra told ANI that the maximum impact of the cyclone will be felt in Puducherry. “Cyclone Nivar is gradually intensifying,” he says. “It could cause structural damage, uprooting of trees, damage to thatched/tin houses and damage to banana and paddy crops.”

Mohapatra adds: “There will be strong winds and heavy rain. The most impact will be in Puducherry and Karaikal.”

#CycloneNivar gradually intensifying. It could cause structural damage, uprooting of trees, damage to thatched/tin houses, & damage to banana & paddy crops. There'll be strong winds & heavy rain. The most impact will be in Puducherry & Karaikal: Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, DG, IMD pic.twitter.com/NlwFqvl5QW

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

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Shutters of Chembarambakkam Lake opened to release water 

The shutters of the Chembarambakkam reservoir in Chennai were opened up earlier to let out 1,000 cusecs of water amid heavy rainfall in Chennai. Cyclone Nivar is set to make landfall later tonight or on early Thursday morning.

#WATCH: Shutters of Chembarambakkam Lake opened to release water into Adyar River, in order to avert flooding. #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/gztfVJgORN

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

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Shutters of Chembarambakkam reservoir open after heavy rains in Chennai 

Seven gates out of the 19 of Chembarambakkam Lake in Chennai have been opened. For the first time in around five years, the gates of the reservoir has been opened. Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswami visited the area as the gates were being opened

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Visuals from Mamallapuram 

Strong winds and rough seas are being witnessed at Mamallapuram ahead of the expected landfall of cyclone Nivar between Karaikal and Mamallapuram during midnight today and early hours of 26 November, reported ANI.

#WATCH Strong winds at Mamallapuram ahead of the expected landfall of #CycloneNivar between Karaikal and Mamallapuram during midnight today and early hours of 26th November#TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/reuh7Qq2C8

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

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List of helplines in various districts of Tamil Nadu

The IMD has sounded a red alert in Ariyalur, Mayiladuthurai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi and Perambalur districts, reported The New Indian Express.

Here is a list of emergency helplines released by the government:

Chennai
Toll free number: 1913

Helpline: 044 2538 4530, 044 25384530, 044 25243454

Chengalpattu
Helpline: 044 27427412, 044 27427414

Ranipet
Arakkonam: 04177236360, 9445000507

Arcot: 04172 235568, 9445000505

Walajah: 04172 232519, 94445000506

Nagapattinam
Helpline: 04365 252500

Ariyalur
Helpline: 04329 226709

Cuddalore
Helpline: 04142220700

Kancheepuram
Helpline WhatsApp: 9445071077

Tiruvarur
Helpline WhatsApp: 934536838

Thanjavur
Helpline: 9345336838

Coimbatore
Helpline: 0422 230114, 0422 2301523

Karaikal
Free helpline numbers: 1070/ 1077
Control Room: 04368 228801, 04368 227704
Whatsapp number: 99438 06263

Disaster management control room: 1077, 044 27237207

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Cyclone Nivar now 290 km from Cuddalore

According to India Meteorological Department, the severe cyclonic storm Nivar has moved west-northwestwards and lay centered over southwest Bay of Bengal, about 290 km east-southeast of Cuddalore, about 300 km east southeast of Puducherry and 350 km south southeast of Chennai.

It is likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm by afternoon.

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Water from Chembarambakkam lake to be released today

PWD officials said they would release water from the Chembarambakkam reservoir at the rate of 1,000 cusecs by noon on Wednesday as Chennai and surrounding areas received heavy rains since Tuesday night due to cyclone Nivar.

The water level is expected to touch 22 feet around noon. The state government has ordered the PWD to release water once the level reaches 22 feet. The reservoir’s total capacity is 24 feet.

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Helpline numbers in case of emergency in Chennai

The Greater Chennai Corporation has set up a control room in every zone and one at Ripon Buildings, its headquarters. Apart from this, 1913 toll-free number can be called in case of any emergency.

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Yellow alert in 9 districts of Karnataka

Nine districts of Karnataka are likely to receive heavy rains due to the impact of cyclone Nivar, according to the Indian Express.

The IMD has sounded a yellow alert for Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Mysuru, Kolar, Chamarajanagar, Chikkaballapur, Tumakuru, Mandya and Ramanagara districts.

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24 flights cancelled in Chennai due to heavy rains

Twelve departure and arrival flights from and to Chennai airport have been cancelled so far due to Cyclone Nivar, accprding to media reports. 

Flights to Kannur, Kozhikode, Vijayawada, Tiruchi, Thoothukudi, Bengaluru, Mangalore and Hubli were cancelled, reported The Hindu.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has been coordinating with the Meteorological Department, National Disaster Response Force and State government officials as well.

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People from low-lying areas evacuated, says Puducherry CM

Puducherry chief minister V Narayanasamy said today that the central control room operating from State Disaster Management Control Room would provide help to the public.

“People from low lying areas evacuated. They will be provided with food, water, hand sanitisers and face masks. The fishermen advised not to venture into the sea,” Narayanasamy said.

Central control room operating from State Disaster Management Control Room to provide help to the public. People from low lying areas evacuated. They will be provided with food, water, hand sanitisers & face masks. The fishermen advised not to venture into the sea: Puducherry CM pic.twitter.com/x4g7Sfis9p

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

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Schools to remain shut in Andhra Pradesh’s Nellore till 27 Nov

Due to cyclone Nivar, district collector of Nellore has issued instructions to close all schools for three days from Wednesday till 27 November, according to Nellore DEO.

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IMD predicts wind speed up to 145 kmph

According to IMD, Cyclone Nivar is very likely to intensify further into a “very severe cyclonic storm’ by Wednesday evening. It is expected to cross Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mamallapuram during 25 November late evening as a very severe cyclonic storm with a wind speed of 120-130 kmph gusting to 145 kmph.

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1200 rescue troopers deployed, 800 on standby, says NDRF chief

Nearly 1,200 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rescue personnel have been deployed in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Puducherry and 800 others are on standby in view of cyclone Nivar, the “very severe cyclonic storm” which is expected to make landfall Wednesday evening.

NDRF chief SN Pradhan also said they are prepared for a “high level of intensity and the worst form” of the cyclonic storm as it surges from the Bay of Bengal towards the southern coastline.

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Hyderabad likely to see heavy rainfall for two days, says report

Hyderabad is expected to experience heavy rainfall on 26-27 November in wake of cyclone Nivar, which will make landfall on the Tamil Nadu coast on Wednesday, reported the Times of India .

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange alert for several districts, including Hyderabad, Rangareddy and Medchal-Malkajgiri for 26 November.

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Heavy rain in Tamil Nadu’s Kanchipuram

Tamil Nadu: Heavy rain lashes Kanchipuram as #CycloneNivar is expected to make landfall between Karaikal and Mamallapuram later today pic.twitter.com/3sNbhU3ri3

— ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2020

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Cyclone Nivar likely to turn into severe storm across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry 

Cyclone Nivar is expected to intensify into a ‘very severe cyclonic storm’ and cross Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mamallapuram on the late evening of 25 November, IMD director general Mrutunjay Mohapatra said on Tuesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had initially predicted that Cyclone Nivar was likely to intensify into a ‘severe cyclonic storm’ but has now estimated that it will intensify further.

Nivar is the second cyclone in the Bay of Bengal this year