IMD Issues Orange Alert for Tamil Nadu as Heavy Rains Persist

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared an orange alert for seven districts in Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, on October 17. Additionally, yellow alerts have been issued for various other regions across the state.

According to the latest update from the IMD, a depression in the Bay of Bengal is responsible for the intense rainfall and flooding in Tamil Nadu. This weather system is expected to move over northern Tamil Nadu and southern Andhra Pradesh today.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced that water stagnation has largely been addressed and that free meals will be provided in Amma canteens across Chennai to assist the underprivileged during this crisis.

Districts Under Orange Alert Near Tamil Nadu

Heavy rainfall is anticipated in several districts, including Chengalpattu, Chennai, Cuddalore, Dharmapuri, Kallakurichi, Kancheepuram, Krishnagiri, Ranipet, Tirupattur, Tiruvallur, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore, Villupuram, and Puducherry.

The IMD report indicates that southern Andhra Pradesh, along with many regions in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and southern Karnataka, is also expected to experience rainfall.

The IMD attributes the heavy rains affecting Tamil Nadu and Chennai to an upper air cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal. Reports of waterlogging have emerged from various parts of the state, with visuals capturing residents navigating knee-deep waters in Chennai, where flooding has caused significant disruptions.

Disruptions to Daily Life

In response to the severe weather, the Tamil Nadu government has deployed over 200 boats and disaster response teams. Schools, colleges, and government offices were closed on October 16 due to the adverse conditions, with further closures anticipated today, although no formal announcement has been made.

Public transport has also been significantly affected, with several bus services disrupted in multiple areas. The Southern Railway has cancelled four express trains, including the Chennai Central-Mysuru Kaveri Express, owing to waterlogging. Additionally, several domestic flights were cancelled due to a lack of passengers.

Also Read: IMD Red Alert: Chennai’s Transport Hits by Monsoon Fury