India: Thousands evacuate ahead of expected landfall of Tropical Cyclone Nivar in Tamil Nadu on November 26 /update 1

Event

Several thousand people have evacuated their homes ahead of the landfall of Tropical Cyclone Nivar which is forecast to make landfall in the vicinity of Kalpakkam (Tamil Nadu state) during the early hours of Thursday, November 26. Nivar is currently sustaining winds of 111kph (69mph) and is predicted to strengthen to sustain winds of 130kph (81mph). Heavy rains are already affecting the area, and these are expected to intensify and affect parts of Andra Pradesh, Karnataka, Puducherry, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu states. Red warnings (the highest on a four-tier scale) for high winds and heavy rain are currently in place for Andra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Thousands of emergency personnel have been deployed to the area and authorities have appealed to the public to remain indoors and heed official instructions. All warnings currently relating to Nivar can be found here.

Associated disruptions to transport, business, and utilities are possible over the coming days as the storm system passes.

Context

India's coastlines are susceptible to cyclones from April through December. Tropical disturbances can and have caused significant human casualties and widespread damage, primarily from flooding but also from wind damage.

Advice

Those in affected areas are advised to monitor weather reports, confirm road conditions before heading out, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and adhere to any directives or advice issued by the local authorities and their home governments.