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ISRO Launches Satellites to Track Cyclone Fengal Heading Towards Tamil Nadu

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has deployed its advanced satellite technology to closely monitor Cyclone Fengal, which is heading towards the Tamil Nadu coast. The satellite monitoring, which commenced on November 23, 2024, is essential for tracking the cyclone’s progress and gathering data on its intensity. Key instruments like the EOS-06 Scatterometer, part of the Oceansat-3 mission, along with the INSAT-3DR satellite, are being used to provide real-time insights into the cyclone’s trajectory and potential impact.

The capabilities of these satellites are proving invaluable in early detection and tracking. According to a post on X (formerly Twitter) by ISRO’s official handle, both the EOS-06 and INSAT-3DR satellites have been monitoring the deep depression over the Bay of Bengal since November 23. ISRO highlighted that the data collected aids in better tracking, early warning systems, and mitigation efforts, ensuring timely responses to the evolving cyclone threat.

One of the standout features of the monitoring system is the EOS-06 Scatterometer, which plays a pivotal role in detecting ocean wind patterns associated with Cyclone Fengal. The scatterometer provides critical data on wind speed and direction, enabling meteorologists to analyze the cyclone’s behavior with greater accuracy. This early wind detection allows for better predictions of the cyclone’s potential path and strength, offering authorities the time needed to prepare and issue warnings.

Experts emphasize the importance of early detection in improving disaster preparedness and response. By providing timely and accurate data, these satellites enhance the ability of local governments and disaster management agencies to implement safety measures and evacuations ahead of the cyclone’s landfall. This proactive approach helps to minimize the impact of severe weather events on vulnerable coastal communities in Tamil Nadu.

Karachi Schools Closed Amid Rare August Cyclone Threat as Heavy Rains Lash Pakistan’s Largest City

Schools in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, were shut down on Friday as heavy rains and stormy winds struck the area, driven by a rare cyclonic storm building up in the Arabian Sea. The Pakistan Meteorological Department reported that parts of Karachi received 147 mm (5.79 inches) of rainfall overnight, leading to significant disruptions across the city. In response, Karachi’s mayor, Murtaza Wahab, urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, emphasizing the importance of staying safe during the ongoing weather event.

The storm is the result of a deep depression currently off the Rann of Kutch in India’s Gujarat region, which meteorologists expect to intensify into a cyclonic storm by the end of the day. According to the Indian weather office, the storm is predicted to continue moving north-westward across the Arabian Sea over the next two days.

As a precaution, Pakistani authorities issued warnings to fishermen and sailors to stay away from the sea. They also alerted the public to the high risk of urban flooding in Karachi and flash floods in the hilly regions in the coming days. Disaster management officials have expressed concern that the storm could cause significant damage, particularly given Karachi’s vulnerability to flooding during heavy rains.

The storm’s unusual timing is also noteworthy. The formation of a cyclonic storm over the Arabian Sea in August is rare; the last such occurrence took place in 1964, according to reports. In India’s Gujarat state, over 28 people have already lost their lives due to severe rain and flooding, with around 18,000 residents evacuated from coastal cities since Sunday. More rainfall is expected in the region as the storm continues to build.

The authorities remain on high alert, urging residents of affected areas to take precautions and prepare for the possibility of further flooding.