Tamil Nadu weather: Red alert in Nilgiris, Chennai to receive moderate rainfall

Chennai: The Chennai Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the Nilgiris district, warning of very heavy rainfall in the region.

This alert comes amid widespread showers affecting several parts of Tamil Nadu due to prevailing atmospheric circulation over southern India.

Widespread rainfall predicted across districts

In an official bulletin, the Chennai Meteorological Centre stated that the Nilgiris is likely to receive extremely heavy rainfall on June 15, following significant precipitation yesterday.

In addition to the Nilgiris, very heavy rain has also been forecast for the hilly regions of Tirunelveli (Nellai), Theni, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari districts.

Several other districts including Dharmapuri, Erode, Salem, Tiruppur, Dindigul, Madurai, and Virudhunagar are expected to experience heavy rainfall today. Chennai is likely to receive moderate showers.

More rainfall expected

The IMD has also forecast continued rainfall across the state on June 16. The hilly areas of Coimbatore and Tirunelveli, along with the Nilgiris, Theni, Tenkasi and Kanyakumari, are likely to be lashed by very heavy rain.

Other districts likely to experience heavy showers tomorrow include Dharmapuri, Erode, Salem, Tiruppur, Namakkal, Karur, Dindigul, Madurai, and Virudhunagar.

Fishermen advised to avoid coastal areas

The Meteorological Department has advised fishermen to refrain from venturing into the sea, particularly along the coastal areas of South Tamil Nadu, the Gulf of Mannar and the Kanyakumari Sea. Gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 65 km/h are expected in these regions.

Disaster response in the Nilgiris

Following the red alert, precautionary measures have been intensified in the Nilgiris district. The State Disaster Response Force has been stationed in Gudalur and Pandalur, and 283 vulnerable locations across the district have been identified.

Moderate rain fell yesterday in key areas of the Nilgiris including Ooty, Kotagiri, Coonoor and Manjoor. However, concerns have been raised as damage from earlier rainfall, particularly in rural areas near the Avalanche Dam, remains unrepaired, causing difficulties for motorists.

The district administration has strictly advised residents and tourists to stay away from rivers, streams, and other water bodies to avoid mishaps.

Public safety advisory

Residents in affected districts are urged to stay alert, follow local advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall. Emergency services are on standby, and updates will be issued as the situation develops.