Cyclone Fengal is approaching Tamil Nadu, prompting the closure of schools and colleges in several districts and advisories for fishermen. The storm is expected to make landfall between Karaikal and Mamallapuram,

On the day of landfall, severe rainfall is expected in seven coastal districts of Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, and neighbouring areas. Delta and northern interior districts are also likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall on Saturday.

The deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclone - named Fengal, pronounced 'Feinjal' - and is likely to cross the Tamil Nadu coast between Karaikal and Mamallapuram mid-Saturday,

Cyclone Fengal has intensified into a storm, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Red alert issued for few Tamil Nadu districts and Puducherry, as authorities mobilise relief efforts and warn fishermen.

IMD forecasts that deep depression over the Bay of Bengal will move north-northwest, skirting Sri Lanka, and intensify into a cyclonic storm.

Due to heavy rain, the Chennai district collector declared a holiday for schools on Friday. Chengalpettu district also followed suit. The deep depression in the Bay of Bengal is projected to weaken without forming Cyclone Fengal.

Tamil Nadu and Puducherry braced for very heavy rain with the possibility of Cyclone Fengal crossing the coasts near Chennai.

Several districts of Tamil Nadu continue to receive heavy rainfall. Yellow alert issued in Chennai, orange alert in Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Villupuram and Cuddalore districts.

Heavy to very heavy rain is likely to occur at isolated places over Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Villupuram and Cuddalore and Puducherry.