Heavy rains continue to batter southern India, leaving at least three people dead in Tamil Nadu after a wall collapsed under torrential rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts in several districts across Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, prompting authorities to close schools and colleges and issue safety advisories.
In Tamil Nadu, the fatalities occurred when a retaining wall gave way in a rain-affected area. Local authorities have deployed emergency teams to rescue affected residents and assess structural damage. Several northern districts, including Chennai, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Ranipet, Chengalpattu, and Trichy, remain under red and orange alerts, with schools and colleges closed. Thoothukudi has suspended schools only, while Salem and Pudukottai declared holidays for schools. The IMD attributes the severe weather to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, which has intensified the northeast monsoon.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh has six districts under red alert due to heavy rainfall. Local administrations have issued advisories to residents, urging them to avoid travel and remain indoors. Fishermen along the coast have been warned not to venture into the sea due to rough weather and high waves. Emergency response teams remain on standby to respond to flooding, landslides, and other rain-related incidents.
Authorities in both states have urged residents to exercise caution, avoid non-essential travel, and follow official updates closely. Relief and rescue operations are ongoing in areas affected by the rains, and contingency measures have been activated to minimize further damage and casualties.