IMD predicts that the cyclonic storm will move west-northwestwards and cross north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts close to Puducherry with a wind speed of 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph during the afternoon today. As Cyclone Fengal expected to intensify Chennai coast, A scene at Kovalam Beach, in Chennai on Friday. | Photo Credit: Ravindran. R

The cyclonic storm has progressed towards Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts and is making landfall near Puducherry, an IMD official said. A red alert has been issued for 10 districts of Tamil Nadu.

The Department of Revenue and Disaster Management has set up toll-free numbers 112 and 1077 to receive distress calls from the public. People can also seek help through the WhatsApp number 9488981070.

Cyclone Fengal remains stationary over Tamil Nadu after landfall; will weaken into deep depression. Follow The Hindu for updates.

Cyclone Fengal, pronounced "Feinjal", made landfall along the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram near Puducherry on Saturday evening, with wind speeds of 70-80 kmph, gusting to 90 kmph,

In a 7:35 pm update, the IMD reported that the forward sector of the cyclone's spiral bands has already moved inland. The storm is forecast to continue moving west-southwest, crossing the northern Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram,

Chennai and neighbourhood areas in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry reported heavy rainfall on Saturday with intense continuing as the cyclone Fengal's landfall process commences at around 7pm.

Cyclone Fengal is expected to make landfall near Puducherry later today, prompting officials to issue warnings and prepare for potential impact. Around 12 lakh residents received SMS alerts urging vigilance as heavy rains lashed the region on Saturday.

Landfall of Cyclone Fengal begins, likely to cross Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts in 3-4 hours, says weather office This is a breaking news story. Details will be added soon. Please refresh the page for latest version.