Chennai heavy rain alert was issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) as a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify, bringing heavy rainfall to Chennai and surrounding regions. The IMD has placed Chennai, Chengalpet, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Cuddalore, and Villupuram districts under an orange alert for Wednesday, with forecasts indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall.
IMD Issues Orange and Yellow Alerts
In addition to the orange alert for Wednesday, Chennai and three neighboring districts have been placed under a yellow alert for moderate to heavy rainfall on Tuesday and Thursday. The low-pressure system that formed over the Bay of Bengal on Monday is likely to move towards Tamil Nadu, causing intensified rain spells across the region between December 17 and 19.
According to the IMD bulletin:
- Temperature Forecast: Maximum temperatures are expected to hover between 29°C-30°C, while minimum temperatures will remain around 22°C-23°C.
- Weather Conditions: Cloudy skies with intermittent thunderstorms and lightning are likely across the city and suburbs.
Heavy Rainfall Impact Across Tamil Nadu
The IMD predicts heavy rain spells across north coastal districts including Chennai, Nagapattinam, and adjoining regions. Central and southern coastal districts, which recently experienced significant downpours, may see a respite this time.
Blogger Pradeep John, known as Tamil Nadu’s weather enthusiast, highlighted that the incoming westerly troughcould play a major role in determining rainfall distribution.
“Heavy rain will be pushed to Chennai if there is a delay in the incoming westerly trough. If the trough comes on time, it will push heavy rainfall away from the city,” he said in one of his weather updates.
Key Alerts:
- Orange Alert (Heavy to Very Heavy Rain): Chennai and key north Tamil Nadu districts on Wednesday.
- Yellow Alert (Moderate to Heavy Rain): Chennai and neighboring areas on Tuesday and Thursday.
Potential Impacts of Heavy Rainfall
With the rain alert in place, authorities have warned residents to prepare for potential disruptions:
- Waterlogging: Low-lying areas in Chennai and suburbs could face waterlogging issues.
- Traffic Delays: Commuters should expect delays, particularly during peak hours.
- Power Interruptions: Short-term power outages may occur in heavily affected areas.
Local agencies are likely to take precautionary measures, including monitoring flood-prone zones, drainage systems, and ensuring safety in vulnerable areas.
Chennai’s Rainfall History This Season
Chennai has already experienced significant rainfall in recent weeks. The city recorded moderate to heavy downpours last week, causing traffic disruptions and water stagnation in certain areas. The incoming system, however, is expected to bring heavier spells, particularly to coastal districts.
- Past Trends: The northeastern monsoon often brings torrential rains to Tamil Nadu during December. The IMD’s orange alert signals the potential for rainfall on par with past extreme weather events.
Weather Enthusiasts and IMD Bulletins
Tamil Nadu weather bloggers and the IMD have been closely tracking the system. Pradeep John, a popular forecaster, emphasized that weather systems over the Bay of Bengal remain unpredictable:
“The exact rainfall trajectory will depend on the westerly movement of the trough. Residents should remain cautious and updated through official forecasts.”
Safety and Precautions for Residents
With heavy rainfall expected, residents are advised to follow safety measures:
- Stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid waterlogged areas.
- Keep emergency supplies like food, water, and power backups handy.
- Avoid traveling through flood-prone routes.
Authorities have also recommended that schools and offices monitor weather updates and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
IMD’s Advisory for Neighboring States
While Tamil Nadu remains the focus of the weather system, neighboring states including Puducherry and Andhra Pradesh are expected to experience moderate rainfalls. The IMD is closely monitoring further developments and will issue updates as the situation evolves.
Final Note on Chennai’s Rain Preparedness
The IMD’s orange alert highlights the need for vigilance as Chennai prepares for another round of heavy rainfall. With previous incidents of waterlogging fresh in residents’ minds, officials urge caution and preparation to mitigate potential impacts.
Stay tuned for real-time weather updates and advisories as Tamil Nadu braces for the intensification of monsoon activity.