Rain Havoc In Chennai: 2-Hour Downpour Causes Waterlogging, Commuter Woes And Traffic Disruptions

A two-hour-long heavy rainfall on Wednesday evening brought Chennai and its neighboring areas to a standstill. The heavy rainfall severely disrupted daily life, causing disruptions in train schedules, flight operations, and bus services. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, Chennai received an average of 10cm of rainfall between 6 pm and 9 pm. Meenambakkam experienced the highest with 20cm, while Manali recorded the lowest at 7.8cm.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted continued rainfall, ranging from light to heavy, along the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry until December 3, as part of the upcoming weather forecast.

The heavy rainfall lasting for 120 minutes resulted in widespread waterlogging across the city, particularly impacting commuters on two-wheelers. Areas like Bazullah Road, North Usman Road, Mandaveli Bus Stand, Haddows Road, OMR, Perambur in North Chennai, and Vyasarpadi were among the worst affected.

Dear #Chennaiites
Perambur subway is closed for traffic.
Commuters kindly make a note and please take a different route.#ChennaiCorporation | #ChennaiRains | #HereToServe pic.twitter.com/bh9J4kQR3A

— Greater Chennai Corporation (@chennaicorp) November 29, 2023

Thiruvallur, Tamil Nadu | Puzhal Lake, also known as the Red Hills Lake, reached its full capacity due to continuous rainfall in the area. So, 389 cusecs of water released from the lake. pic.twitter.com/33zudRo51u

— ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2023

Taking cognizance of the problems being faced by the citizens and heavy traffic jams, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin directed officials and elected representatives to visit and assist people in the affected regions.

#WATCH | Heavy rain in Tamil Nadus Chennai as a result of a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal pic.twitter.com/gro95BI0qE

— ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2023

The GCC commissioner Dr J Radhakrishnan told the media that he has received directions from the Chief Minister and the department "will have motors running in low-lying areas throughout the night".

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu | Chennai continues to receive heavy rainfall. Visuals from Nandanam area.

Schools in Chennai are closed due to continuous heavy downpour, several areas face waterlogging. pic.twitter.com/Mqxej32Jd1

— ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2023

HR&CE Minister PK Sekarbabu and city mayor R Priya have also stepped in to fasten the help and relief work.

Given the severity of the situation, schools and colleges in Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur districts remained closed. Numerous train services were canceled, and flights were diverted due to the adverse weather conditions.