Cyclone Ditwah: Key Questions Answered - Tamil Nadu Weatherman Explains Impact on Chennai & Other Districts
With Cyclone Ditwah weakening after crossing Sri Lanka, several questions are being raised by the public regarding the impact on Chennai and surrounding districts. The Tamil Nadu Weatherman has responded to common queries, clarifying rain expectations, wind speeds, and district-wise alerts over the next few days.
Cyclone Ditwah Weakened – Will Rains Stop for Chennai?
The cyclone has significantly weakened after interacting with Sri Lanka’s mountainous terrain and is expected to move back into open waters.
According to the Weatherman, the system will face increasing wind shear and dry air, preventing it from intensifying into a strong cyclone again.
It is likely to reach near Chennai as a Depression or Deep Depression.
“From the start, Ditwah was never a windy cyclone like Thane, Gaja, or Vardah. So this weakening does not change anything,” he said.
When Will Rain Start in Chennai (KTCC Region)?
The bulk of rainfall for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kancheepuram (KTCC) is expected on November 30, with some rain likely on November 29.
Will There Be Strong Winds in Chennai?
No major wind threat is expected.
“Maximum winds will be around 50–60 km/hr. Compared to this, Vardah had 120 km/hr, Gaja 140 km/hr, and Thane 150 km/hr,” he clarified.
Rain Forecast for Delta & Nearby Districts
Once Ditwah reaches open sea near Jaffna on 29 November, it may regain some strength.
During this period, very heavy rainfall is expected in:
- Nagapattinam
- Tiruvarur
- Thanjavur
- Karaikal
- Mayiladuthurai
Heavy rains are also forecast for:
- Trichy, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Pudukkottai
After the system moves north, rains are expected to spread to:
- Cuddalore, Puducherry, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore, Ranipet, Salem, Namakkal
Why the Name `Ditwah`?
Cyclone names for the North Indian Ocean are pre-selected from a list submitted by member countries.
Upcoming names include Montha, Senyar, Ditwah, and Arnab.
Will Ditwah Bring Michaung-Level Rains?
No.
Chennai received 400 mm in 24 hours during Cyclone Michaung — a rare extreme event.
“This system will not produce rains like Michaung. At best, divide the Michaung total by 2.5,” he noted.
Will December 1 Be a Celebration Day for KTCC ∓ Vellore-Ranipet Groups?
If rains extend into December 1 and 150+ mm rain is recorded, expectations may be met.
Rains are likely on late 29th, 30th, and possibly 1st December.
“Nature Always Wins” – Weatherman’s Closing Message
The Tamil Nadu Weatherman emphasized that weather is probability-based and can never be predicted with 100% accuracy.
“Nature is the winner always. Twists happen. We provide the best possible interpretation with the available data.”
Conclusion
Although Cyclone Ditwah has weakened, significant rainfall is expected for Chennai and several districts over the next few days. Residents are advised to stay updated and follow official advisories.
