Chennai airport cancels 54 flights ahead of Cyclone Ditwah intensifying over the Bay of Bengal, with authorities prioritizing passenger safety amid IMD predictions of severe weather. The cancellations target all ATR-type regional turboprop flights from Saturday morning through night, affecting routes to Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Thoothukudi, Salem, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Jaffna. This precautionary step addresses risks from cyclonic winds and heavy downpours expected along the Tamil Nadu coast.
Cyclone Ditwah Forecast and Path
Cyclone Ditwah tracks northwest from southwest Bay of Bengal near Sri Lanka toward north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, with landfall anticipated early November 30, 2025. IMD forecasts gale winds reaching 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph, triggering red alerts for Chennai and surrounding districts. The storm follows devastation in Sri Lanka, claiming over 120 lives, now posing flood and disruption threats to transport infrastructure.
Why Chennai Airport Cancels 54 Flights
Chennai airport cancels 54 flights primarily due to ATR turboprops’ vulnerability to strong crosswinds and turbulence compared to larger jets. IndiGo suspended all such operations, impacting 36 regional services, while airport officials cite assessed risks from the approaching cyclone. Passengers receive direct advisories to avoid travel, with refunds or rescheduling options available via airline apps. Additional suspensions remain possible as conditions worsen.
Regional Disruptions and Preparations
Schools close statewide, NDRF deploys teams, and emergency services activate flood defenses as Chennai airport cancels 54 flights signals broader impacts. Rough seas persist till Monday, with fishermen barred from venturing out and power grids at risk from intense rainfall starting Saturday. Tamil Nadu districts brace for flash floods in urban zones and landslides in hills.
Passenger Guidance and Next Steps
Travelers impacted when Chennai airport cancels 54 flights should monitor airline notifications closely and adjust plans promptly. Authorities emphasize avoiding peak cyclone hours, with real-time IMD bulletins guiding decisions. The measure reflects standard protocols for severe weather, safeguarding operations post-storm.
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