Cyclonic storm Mandous is inching closer to the north-south coastal axis of Puducherry-Chennai. The storm is moving slowly with a speed of about 10-12kmh and heading more to the northwest as compared to its earlier track of west-northwest. Rains are almost non-stop since yesterday and have now become more intense and fearing.
Despite gradual weakening of storm, the towering convective cloud cluster remain intact. Peripheral and outer curved cloud bands have already reached the coastline and inflicting heavy intermittent showers. Slow movement of the storm will facilitate lingering, possibly lashing blinding rains along the coast covering Puducherry, Mahabalipuram, Tambaram, Meenambakkam and Nungambakkam.
Air operations may have to be restricted on account of poor visibility and strong gusty winds, later in the day. Dense clouds with tops reaching beyond 10km height and surrounding airports at Puducherry, Tambaram and Meenambakkam may become hazardous for air operations.
Gusty head winds and crosswinds may further add to the degree of difficulty, specially on take off and landing legs. Rainfall in excess of 3 digits in 24hr is quite likely, embedded with terrific bursts in between. Localized flooding and inundation of low lying areas may disrupt connectivity. Better stay safe indoor than venturing out without essential cause.
