CMB Weather Alert – Cyclone Ditwah Weakens; Remnants Bring Widespread Rain Across Tamil Nadu

Cyclone Ditwah has fully weakened into a deep depression near the Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coastline, with the system now stalling close to land and expected to weaken further into a depression within hours. Despite losing cyclone strength, the system continues to generate moderate to heavy rainfall, especially across northern Tamil Nadu and coastal Andhra Pradesh.

Current Position (Latest IMD Update)

• 90 km south-southeast of Chennai

• 90 km east-southeast of Puducherry

• 110 km east-northeast of Cuddalore

• 180 km north-northeast of Karaikal

• Estimated 50 km offshore from Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coastline.

The system has slowed significantly and is expected to remain nearly stationary for the next 24 hours.

Observed & Forecast Rainfall Impact

Rainfall has been recorded across multiple districts, including:

✔ Chennai
✔ Thiruvallur
✔ Kancheepuram
✔ Cuddalore
✔ Ranipet

More rainfall is expected as the system lingers over the southwest Bay of Bengal.

---

Marine & Transportation Advisory

The IMD continues to warn against marine activities:

🚫 Fishing ban continues
🚫 Do not enter:

• Southwest Bay of Bengal

• Gulf of Mannar

• Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coast

• Andhra Pradesh coastal waters

• Sri Lanka marine belt

Port movement may experience temporary disruption and cargo handling delays at:

• Chennai

• Ennore

• Cuddalore

• Kakinada

Crop & Logistics Implications

• Harvesting delays expected for rice, groundnut, and vegetables.

• Moisture benefit likely for rabi crops such as millets and pulses if field drainage remains adequate.

• Possible urban flooding risk in Chennai and coastal districts due to slow system movement.

Outlook

Ditwah has lost cyclone intensity but remains a slow-moving rain-bearing system. Continued monitoring is required due to its stationary pattern, which can increase localized rainfall intensity.

Further weakening into a depression is expected by noon on December 1.

CMB Weather Desk will issue further updates as IMD releases new bulletins.

Source: IMD