After hitting Tamil Nadu coast as severe cyclonic storm past midnight, Gaja had then weakened into a cyclonic storm during the early morning hours on Friday.
The system is still maintaining its strength. At present, it is over northwest of Dindigul, which would continue to move in westerly direction. But as the system would now encounter with hilly terrain, it would soon weaken into a Deep Depression during the next three hours.
The system is still moving with squally winds with the speed of around 60 kmph to 70 Kmph gusting to 80 Kmph. As per weathermen, Gaja still has the potential to cause more damage. People are advised to exercise caution.
Heavy to very heavy rains would continue over several parts of the state on Friday, particularly interior Tamil Nadu. However, rains would now gradually recede from the coastal stations.
State capital of Chennai would also continue with light to moderate showers, with cloudy sky conditions throughout the day.
Gaja had triggered heavy to very heavy rains across the state, however winds could be associated more with the damage done. Several trees were uprooted, roof tops were blown away and electricity poles were snapped.
In span of 24 hours from 8:30 am on Thursday, Cuddalore recorded 87 mm of rain, followed by Karaikal at 64 mm, Parangipettai 62 mm, Kodaikanal 61 mm, Kanyakumari 51 mm, Thanjavur 46 mm, Pamban 47 mm, Trichy 42 mm, and Tuticorin 41 mm.
Image Credit: Indian Express
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