Chennai Braces for Landfall as Heavy Rain Continues

Chennai braced for heavy rain

Chennai Braces for Landfall as Heavy Rain Continues A significant weather system forming over the Bay of Bengal has prompted a high alert along the East Coast this week. Residents of Chennai, who have already faced several days of heavy rain, are closely monitoring this developing situation.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that the system has intensified into a depression, although it has not yet developed into a full cyclone. It is anticipated to make landfall between North Tamil Nadu and South Andhra Pradesh, specifically along the Puducherry to Nellore coast, on Thursday, October 17. While this poses a potential threat to Chennai, the impact may be less severe.

Nonetheless, Chennai should brace for extremely heavy rainfall, with predictions of over 20 cm today. A red warning has been issued, indicating that immediate action is necessary. Although the intensity of rainfall is expected to diminish by tomorrow, an orange alert will remain in effect for Thursday and Friday (October 17-18), urging residents to remain prepared. Conditions are expected to improve by the weekend.

Chennai’s infrastructure is already struggling due to the ongoing rains, with reports of waterlogging in various areas. By 7:30 PM on Tuesday, significant rainfall was recorded, with 13 cm in Nungambakkam and 10 cm in Meenambakkam. Many residential areas, major roads, and highways are severely flooded, leading to traffic congestion and leaving numerous individuals stranded. Public transport services have also been disrupted.

In response, the state government has ramped up disaster relief and rescue operations throughout the city. Authorities are advising residents to adhere to safety guidelines and limit outdoor activities to essential trips only. Staying informed and taking precautions is crucial as the situation develops.

Chennai Braces for Landfall as Heavy Rain Continues On Wednesday, October 16, 2024, heavy rain continued to batter Chennai and other areas of Tamil Nadu, causing residential neighborhoods and roads to be submerged under knee-deep water. This situation has led to significant traffic congestion and disrupted public transport services. According to a press release from the Meteorological Department, the weather system is expected to move west-northwest and make landfall on the north Tamil Nadu-south Andhra Pradesh coast, between Puducherry and Nellore, near Chennai, early on October 17 as a depression.

Squally weather is anticipated, with wind speeds reaching up to 60 km per hour along the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal, affecting the coasts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh until October 17.

In response, the Tamil Nadu government has placed disaster response teams from both the State and Central government on standby in 26 locations across Chennai and nearby districts. Additionally, 219 boats are prepared for deployment to assist with rain-related operations in Chennai and other areas of the State.