Tamil Nadu Braces for Heavy Rains: Critical Alerts for 13 Districts 

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has issued critical weather alerts across Tamil Nadu, with an orange alert for isolated areas of Nilgiris and Coimbatore Ghats—indicating extreme rainfall risks, landslides, and potential flooding. Authorities urge residents in these zones to avoid hillsides and relocate if vulnerable.

Eleven districts and Puducherry remain under yellow alert (Theni, Tenkasi, Dharmapuri, and others), anticipating heavy showers and lightning. Chennai expects intermittent rain, advising commuters to prepare for waterlogging in low-lying areas like Medavakkam.

Notably, Cheyyar (Tiruvannamalai) recorded 9 cm rainfall Sunday—heightening flood concerns. Daytime temperatures dropped 1–4°C statewide, with Tiruthani hitting 36.6°C.

Fishermen must avoid sea travel due to 65 kmph squalls in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. Emergency protocols are activated, including school closures in high-risk districts August 6 and planned power outages across 200+ locations. Residents should monitor RMC advisories and stock essentials.

Tamil Nadu Braces for Heavy Rains: Critical Alerts for 13 Districts 

Chennai: The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has escalated weather warnings across Tamil Nadu, placing communities in 13 districts and Puducherry on high alert. With intense rainfall expected over the next 48 hours, authorities urge residents to prioritize safety amid risks of flooding, landslides, and disruptions. 

Key Alerts & Impact Zones 

ORANGE ALERT (Severe Risk):  

• Nilgiris & Coimbatore Ghats: Isolated areas face threats of extremely heavy rainfall (over 20 cm). Landslide-prone zones are at highest risk. Residents should avoid hilly terrain and riverbanks.  

• Action: Evacuation plans activated; schools closed August 6 in vulnerable districts. 

YELLOW ALERT (Moderate Risk):  

• Districts: Theni, Tenkasi, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Vellore, Tirupattur, Tiruvannamalai, Kancheepuram, Villuppuram, Kallakurichi + Puducherry.  

• Expected: Localized flooding, lightning strikes. Farmers advised to secure crops. 

Chennai & Regional Updates 

• Chennai: Intermittent showers likely. Commuters should anticipate waterlogging in low-lying areas (e.g., Medavakkam, Tambaram).  

• Temperatures: Daytime heat dips (1–4°C drop), with Tiruthani at 36.6°C (high) and Karur at 20.0°C (low).  

• Rainfall Peak: Cheyyar (Tiruvannamalai) recorded 9 cm Sunday—signaling saturated soil conditions. 

Critical Safety Advisories 

• Travel: Avoid Ghat roads (Nilgiris/Coimbatore) until alerts ease. Urban areas: Steer clear of underpasses.  

• Coastal Warnings: Squally winds (55–65 kmph) in Arabian Sea, SW Bay of Bengal. Fishermen must stay ashore.  

• Emergency Prep: Stock essentials; charge devices; report downed power lines immediately (see outage list below). 

Behind the Weather Shift 

This surge aligns with an active monsoon trough interacting with western disturbances. While rains ease drought concerns, RMC cautions that cumulative rainfall since July has increased landslide vulnerability in Western Ghats.  

Power & Infrastructure Impact 

• Planned outages hit 200+ locations statewide August 5–6 (50+ in Chennai). Check TNEB app for real-time updates.  

• Schools closed August 6 in districts under orange alert. 

Heavy rains recharge reservoirs but test Tamil Nadu’s flood management. Lessons from past events (2023 Chennai floods) highlight needs:  

• Upgraded drainage in urban hotspots.  

• Landslide sensors in Ghat regions.  

• Community alert networks for fisherfolk/farmers.