12 Nov 2018 | 10:11 PM UTC
India/Sri Lanka: Cyclone Gaja to make landfall near Karaikal early Nov. 15 /update 1
Cyclone Gaja is forecast to hit southern India (Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry) and northern Sri Lanka early November 15; weather warnings in effect for southern India November 15-16
Event
Cyclone Gaja is forecast to make landfall in southern India, near Karaikal, in the early hours (local time) of Thursday, November 15. The storm will affect coastal areas of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry along with northern Sri Lanka. Heavy rain and strong winds are also expected for Kerala and southern Karnataka. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued weather warnings, their highest alert, for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andhra Pradesh for Thursday and Friday, November 16. Rainfall of more than 20 cm (8 in) is expected in northern Tamil Nadu on Thursday. Winds of up to 100 km/h (60 mph) are expected beginning on the evening of Wednesday, November 14.
As of 17:30 on Monday, November 12, Gaja was located approximately 800 km (500 mi) east of Chennai and producing sustained winds of 75 km/h (45 mph). It is forecast to strengthen over the coming days before weakening just before landfall.
Context
Tropical cyclones are common in the Indian Ocean from April to December.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, and anticipate flooding, transportation, and telecommunication disruptions. In the event of flooding, keep in mind that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
