Chennai: The Chennai administration declared a holiday for schools and colleges on Tuesday, October 22, as heavy rains continue to lash several districts of Tamil Nadu due to the intensifying Northeast monsoon. Authorities have issued multiple weather alerts for the state, urging residents to exercise caution.
Heavy rainfall warnings issued
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has forecast heavy rainfall along the coastal districts, issuing red, orange, and yellow alerts across various regions. B Amudha, Director of RMC Chennai, stated that a low pressure area formed over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a well-marked low pressure area located approximately 400 km from Chennai.
“By noon tomorrow, the system may strengthen into a Depression off the coasts of north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh,” Amudha reported, highlighting the potential for significant rainfall in the coming days.
Districts under alert
Red alerts, indicating extremely heavy rain exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours, have been issued for Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, and Mayiladuthurai districts. Orange alerts, signalling very heavy rainfall between 11 cm and 20 cm, have been sounded for Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Nagapattinam, and Thanjavur.
The administration has advised fishermen and residents in coastal areas to remain vigilant, follow official safety instructions, and avoid unnecessary travel.
Impact on Puducherry
The union territory of Puducherry has also been placed under alert due to the heavy rainfall forecast. Schools and colleges in Puducherry and Karaikal will remain closed on October 22 as a precautionary measure. Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and take necessary precautions to safeguard life and property.
Safety advisories
Officials have cautioned that heavy rainfall may lead to waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and other hazards. Citizens are advised to monitor updates from the RMC and local administration, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
With the Northeast monsoon intensifying, meteorologists have warned that heavy showers may continue in the region over the next few days, urging both urban and rural populations to remain prepared.