Chennai Flood-Like Situation: Severe Waterlogging Causes Traffic Chaos, Flights Canceled Due to Heavy Rains

Chennai rain updates: Chennai witnessed significant waterlogging on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, as a well-marked low-pressure system over the central parts of the south Bay of Bengal gathered strength. The city and its surrounding districts-Chengalpettu, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur-experienced a heavy downpour early in the morning, causing widespread disruption.

Areas like Ekatuthangal, Venus Colony, and Alagappa Road were severely affected by waterlogging, with vehicles and pedestrians struggling to navigate the flooded streets. The 100-ft Road in Vadapalani, one of the city's key arterial routes, saw severe traffic jams as vehicles waded through waterlogged sections.

Water has already entered homes on Pilliyar Kovil Street in Thanthai Periyar Nagar, Taramani, and Velachery.

The rain also impacted air travel, with twelve flights being cancelled at Chennai Airport due to a low passenger turnout. However, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) reported that, as of 11 a.m., no flights had been delayed or diverted due to the rains.

In the wake of heavy rains predicted for two days (October 15, 16) the officials of Tangedco has been maintaining power supply in major parts of Chennai city except in a few parts which are prone for flooding.

A bulletin of India Meteorological Department noted that the weather system will further consolidate into a depression and move towards north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts by October 17.

Amid heavy rainfall lashing parts of Tamil Nadu, the Chennai Airport announced the cancellation of eight flights scheduled to operate to and from destinations including Bengaluru, Andaman, New Delhi, and Muscat. According to an official statement, the disruptions occurred due to adverse weather conditions affecting airport operations.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin directed the authorities to declare a holiday for schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpattu districts on October 15, in view of the heavy rain predicted by met office in the next four days.

The Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority's State Helpline: 1070, District helpline 1077, Whatsapp: 9445869848. For information about relief centres, food supply, and flood volunteers helpline 1913 can be contacted.