Cyclone Fengal-triggered heavy rains accompanied by gusty winds lashed northern Tamil Nadu and neighbouring Puducherry on Saturday.

The airport had temporarily suspended operations on Saturday due to strong winds and heavy rainfall caused by cyclones.

The next 2 days are expected to have minimum temperatures hovering around 20-21 degrees, with maximum temperatures unlikely to exceed 25 degrees in Bengaluru.

The cyclonic storm has progressed towards Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts and is making landfall near Puducherry, an IMD official said. A red alert has been issued for 10 districts of Tamil Nadu.

Moving at a much reduced speed of 6 kmph than the previous 13 kmph, the centre of the cyclonic system would take another three to four hours to cross the coast, the Regional Meteorological Centre said.

Cyclonic storm Fengal commenced its landfall process close to Puducherry and it may approximately take 4 hours for it to cross the coast completely, PTI reported, citing an India Meteorological Department (IMD) official on Saturday.

Chennai experienced gusty winds and heavy rain on Saturday due to Cyclonic Storm Fengal, causing tree uprooting and waterlogging. Fengal is expected to cross the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coast with wind speeds between 70-90 kmph.

The cyclone is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and disruptions across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

The Department of Revenue and Disaster Management has set up toll-free numbers 112 and 1077 to receive distress calls from the public. People can also seek help through the WhatsApp number 9488981070.