Cyclone Ditwah has caused major travel disruptions in Tamil Nadu as authorities at Chennai International Airport cancelled 54 flights on Saturday. The move came as a safety measure while the state prepares for severe rain, strong winds, and rough weather.
Airport operations were hit early in the morning, affecting travellers on regional and short-haul domestic routes. As the cyclone edges closer, the state government and disaster management teams have shifted into high alert.
This special report takes a closer look at how the cyclone is impacting travel, what authorities are doing to prepare, and what passengers should expect in the coming days.
Flights Cancelled Ahead of Cyclone Impact
Airport officials confirmed that 54 flights — both arrivals and departures — were cancelled as a precaution. Most of these services involved ATR turboprop aircraft, which are more affected by high wind and unstable weather.
The cancellations disrupted connections between Chennai and several key destinations, including:
- Madurai
- Tiruchirappalli
- Thoothukudi
- Salem
- Bengaluru
- Hyderabad
- Jaffna (Sri Lanka)
Flights scheduled from Saturday morning to late evening were affected. Airport authorities noted that the safety of passengers and crew remains their top priority. With wind speed and cloud movement expected to intensify, grounding these aircraft became necessary.
How Cyclone Ditwah Is Progressing
According to weather authorities, Cyclone Ditwah formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal near the Sri Lanka coast. The storm is moving north-northwest, heading toward the Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh coastline.
Forecasts indicate heavy to very heavy rainfall in coastal districts and parts of the Cauvery delta. Wind speeds are likely to increase as the cyclone nears landfall.
Government agencies have issued alerts urging residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement, especially along the coast. The risk of flooding, power disruptions, and falling trees remains high.
Tamil Nadu Government Steps Up Preparedness
The Tamil Nadu government has launched a statewide monitoring and response effort. The Chief Minister chaired an emergency meeting to review safety measures and readiness levels across departments.
Key actions include:
- Deployment of teams in vulnerable coastal and delta districts
- Continuous monitoring of rivers, lakes, and reservoirs
- Safety checks on power lines and drainage networks
- Stocking emergency essentials in relief centres
- Readying teams from fire, rescue, and health departments
Authorities have urged fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea and advised residents in low-lying areas to stay alert.
What Travellers Need to Know
Passengers with flights scheduled to or from Chennai should prepare for delays, rescheduling, or further cancellations. Weather-related disruptions often trigger a chain reaction that could affect operations even after conditions improve.
Key Travel Guidance
- Check flight status frequently. Confirm with airlines before leaving home.
- Expect delays. Even non-cancelled flights may be rescheduled.
- Plan alternate routes. Consider rail or road travel if urgent.
- Avoid coastal travel. Sea conditions are unsafe during cyclones.
- Be ready for local transport delays. Rain and wind can slow movement across the city.
Travellers are also encouraged to keep extra time between connecting journeys and avoid tight schedules.
Chennai’s History of Weather-Driven Flight Disruptions
Cyclone seasons often lead to disruptions at Chennai Airport. Earlier weather systems like Cyclone Montha and Cyclone Fengal led to partial shutdowns in previous years. Many travellers recall long waits, crowded lounges, and sudden cancellations during those events.
This pattern has made residents and frequent flyers more cautious during cyclone alerts. With Ditwah nearing, many expect similar disruptions in the short term.
Human Stories Behind the Disruptions
Beyond numbers and advisories, the impact is deeply personal for many travellers. Families planning reunions, students travelling home, and workers heading to other states now find their plans halted.
Uncertainty at terminals adds stress. Long queues at airline counters and difficulty reaching customer service amplify concerns. Yet officials highlight that these steps, though inconvenient, are essential during severe weather.
What to Expect in the Coming Days
As Cyclone Ditwah moves closer, more changes in flight operations are possible. Weather agencies will issue frequent bulletins, and airport authorities will continue reviewing safety conditions.
Residents and travellers should:
- Monitor official weather updates
- Stay indoors during heavy rain warnings
- Secure loose items around homes
- Keep emergency supplies accessible
- Avoid travel unless necessary
With heavy rainfall expected, residents should be cautious of waterlogged roads, fallen trees, and power cuts.
Conclusion: Safety Comes Before Schedules
The cancellation of 54 flights at Chennai Airport reflects the city’s commitment to public safety as Cyclone Ditwah approaches. While the disruptions are inconvenient, the precautionary steps help protect travellers and staff during unpredictable weather.
If you’re planning to travel soon, stay updated, remain flexible, and prioritise safety. As Tamil Nadu prepares for the cyclone’s impact, timely alerts and responsible decisions will help minimise risks for everyone.
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