Heavy rainfall is expected to continue across Tamil Nadu as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of very heavy showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds in several districts. Persistent downpours have raised concerns about waterlogging and localised flooding, particularly in low-lying areas of Chennai and neighbouring districts.
A low-pressure area formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal on Wednesday, October 21, under the influence of an upper-air cyclonic circulation off the Tamil Nadu coast. The developing weather system is expected to contribute to further rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal in the coming days, according to the weather department.
Chennai experienced heavy overnight rainfall, disrupting movement in several neighbourhoods. The Greater Chennai Corporation reported an average rainfall of 70.25 mm across the city during the 24 hours ending at 6 am on Wednesday. Vadapalani, Saidapet and Alandur recorded particularly heavy rainfall, with totals of 132.9 mm, 125.2 mm and 119.4 mm, respectively.
IMD Rain Alert: Districts Facing Heavy to Very Heavy Showers
The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places in several districts, with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph possible at one or two locations.
The districts identified in the forecast for Thursday include Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari, Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, Ramanathapuram, Theni, Dindigul, Madurai, Coimbatore, the Nilgiris, Sivaganga, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai. Karaikal is also covered by the warning.
For Friday, heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecast at isolated places in Kanniyakumari, the Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds could accompany the showers.
The wider wet spell is expected to persist beyond Thursday, with further rainfall warnings covering parts of Tamil Nadu and the adjoining regions over the following days. Residents should consult the latest district-level IMD bulletins because warning areas and rainfall intensity can change.
Chennai Waterlogging Raises Flood Concerns
Heavy rainfall can lead to localised flooding, traffic disruption and difficulties for commuters, particularly in areas prone to water accumulation. Civic authorities have been responding to waterlogging complaints and other rain-related incidents in Chennai.
The Greater Chennai Corporation has urged residents to exercise caution in affected areas. People should avoid walking or driving through flooded stretches, stay away from open drains and report dangerous conditions to civic authorities. Motorists should also check road conditions before travelling and allow additional time for their journeys.
Schools in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram and Ranipet were declared closed on Wednesday, October 21, following heavy overnight rain. Any extension of the closures will depend on fresh announcements from the respective district administrations.
The formation of the low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal remains an important factor in the rainfall outlook. Residents across the affected districts should monitor official weather warnings and local administration advisories as the system develops.