Bhubaneswar, Nov 29: The Cyclonic Storm Ditwah currently moving north-northwest across coastal Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal, is expected to approach the Indian coastline by early morning of November 30.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), as of 0530 hrs IST today, the storm was centered near latitude 9.4°N and longitude 80.7°E, approximately 80 km east-southeast of Jaffna (Sri Lanka), 110 km north-northwest of Trincomalee (Sri Lanka), 190 km south-southeast of Karaikal (India), 300 km south-southeast of Puducherry (India), and 400 km south of Chennai (India).

The system is very likely to continue its north-northwestward movement and reach the southwest Bay of Bengal near the coasts of North Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh by early morning of November 30, it said.


Also read: Cyclone Ditwah: These States To Witness Heavy Rain In Next Few Hours

Authorities have issued cyclone watches for these regions, warning of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions.

The weather department has issued red alert for parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the southwest and west-central Bay of Bengal, while ports and coastal districts are on high alert. Disaster management teams are being mobilized, and state governments are coordinating with central agencies to ensure preparedness.

Residents in vulnerable areas have been urged to stay indoors, follow official advisories, and keep emergency supplies ready. Flight and train services in coastal cities may also face temporary disruptions depending on the storm’s intensity.

The IMD will continue to monitor the system closely and issue updated bulletins as Cyclone Ditwah advances towards the Indian coast.