Chennai Rains Alert: Are Schools And Colleges Closed From October 15?

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu, with the region set to experience significant downpours in the coming days.

Yesterday, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) issued a red alert for several parts of Chennai, indicating severe weather conditions. The IMD predicts rainfall of up to 20 cm in a single day during this monsoon period. However, the construction of numerous stormwater drains (SWDs) in various residential areas of Chennai remains incomplete, raising concerns about potential flooding.

In response to the forecast of heavy rainfall, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has directed authorities to declare a holiday for schools and colleges in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Tiruvallur districts on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. He has also advised IT companies in these districts to allow employees to work from home from October 15 to 18, prioritising safety amid the anticipated weather conditions.

Heavy rains the previous evening in Tiruvallur resulted in waterlogging in several areas, including the Ponneri railway subway. Local authorities are currently assessing the situation and managing the impact of the flooding.

The IMD forecasts isolated heavy rainfall over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal from October 12 to 16, with the most intense rain expected on October 14 and 15. An orange alert has been issued for these dates, warning of possible flooding and waterlogging.

Several districts, including Dharmapuri, Salem, Nilgiris, and Erode, are also predicted to experience heavy rainfall. Chennai and surrounding regions are particularly prepared for heavy rains, as the northeast monsoon is anticipated to arrive by October 15 or 16.

Additionally, the IMD has reported a cyclonic circulation over the southeast Bay of Bengal and the adjoining equatorial Indian Ocean, expected to develop into a well-marked low-pressure system, bringing significant rainfall to the region within the next 48 hours.

As Tamil Nadu braces for the northeast monsoon, some districts have already recorded substantial rainfall, providing relief to certain areas while raising concerns about waterlogging and flooding in others. The IMD has also issued a warning to fishermen, advising against venturing into the sea until October 17 due to rough sea conditions and gusty winds.