Cyclone signal IV hoisted at Thoothukudi port

Cyclonic storm signal IV has been hoisted at Thoothukudi’s V.O.C. Port on Thursday, under the directive of the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, due to formation of cyclonic storm ‘Ditwah’ over southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Sri Lanka coast.

The northeast monsoon, which has intensified across Tamil Nadu, has resulted in widespread showers in Thoothukudi recently.

Owing to the prevailing weather conditions, for the fifth consecutive day until Thursday, fishermen have not ventured into the sea from Thoothukudi fishing harbour and due to this, around 250 boats remain anchored at the harbour.

According to RMC, Chennai, fishermen warning has been issued along and off the coast of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, southwest Bay of Bengal, Gulf of Mannar and Comorin areas, as gale winds reaching 60 kmph to 70 kmph gusting to 80 kmph is prevailing and is likely to increase further becoming 70-80 kmph gusting to 90 kmph by Friday (November 28) morning.

The winds are expected to continue increasing, reaching 80 kmph to 90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph by Saturday (November 29) morning till Sunday (November 30) morning. Sea conditions are expected to be high till December 1, (Monday) and it is likely to improve gradually thereafter.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into sea these days and those out at sea are advised to avoid the mentioned areas.