Cyclone Ditwah: Tamil Nadu hit hard as toll rises and relief expands
Cyclone Ditwah: Tamil Nadu hit hard as toll rises and relief expands
Cyclone Ditwah tightens its grip on Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, with casualties, evacuations, and rapid relief operations as rescue teams rush to affected areas.
Cyclone Ditwah has battered coastal regions, prompting widespread alerts as it tracks parallel to the southern coast. In Sri Lanka, the cyclone's toll has climbed, with rescue teams racing to reach stranded civilians. India has launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to assist the island nation, while weather systems continue to threaten neighboring Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
In Tamil Nadu, three people have died in rain-related incidents. Two deaths occurred after walls collapsed in Thanjavur and Thoothukudi districts, while a third fatality was reported from electrocution in Mayiladuthurai. Heavy rainfall and strong winds forced authorities to keep people indoors and to shift vulnerable residents to safety shelters.
In Andhra Pradesh, officials identified nearly 7,900 pregnant women nearing delivery in districts expected to be affected by Ditwah, with 375 moved to hospitals as a precaution. The health department said efforts would continue to move the remaining women to nearby facilities to ensure timely care.
Across the region, Indian relief agencies and Sri Lankan authorities have stepped up operations. In Sri Lanka, authorities reported the mounting toll and widespread displacement, while India has deployed rescue teams and relief materials to assist Sri Lanka and boost domestic readiness.
Officials warned more rain could follow and urged residents in affected districts to stay alert, monitor weather updates, and use designated relief camps. As families await clearer skies, communities are rallying to support those displaced and to preserve life and property.
Cover image source: Cyclone Ditwah: Young woman dies, three injured in wall collapse near Kumbakonam 🔗
