Tiruvallur (Tamil Nadu): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu, as the region braces for significant downpours over the next few days.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a holiday for schools and colleges in four districts on Tuesday. Additionally, a work-from-home advisory has been issued for the area from Oct 15 to 18.

Last day, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has already issued a red alert for many parts of Chennai. 

The weather department has predicted rainfall of up to 20 cm in a single day during the monsoon. However, the construction of several stormwater drains (SWDs) in many residential areas of Chennai remains incomplete.

A low-pressure area formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal at 0530 hrs IST on October 14, 2024, is expected to intensify and move northwest towards north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and southern Andhra Pradesh coasts.

In Tiruvallur, heavy rains the previous evening led to waterlogging in several areas, including the Ponneri railway subway. Local authorities are currently assessing the situation and managing the impact of the flooding.

The IMD forecasts isolated heavy rainfall over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal from October 12 to 16, with the most intense rain expected on October 14 and 15. An orange alert has been issued for these dates, warning of potential flooding and waterlogging.

Several districts, including Dharmapuri, Salem, Nilgiris, and Erode, are also predicted to experience heavy rainfall. Chennai and surrounding regions are particularly prepared for heavy rains as the northeast monsoon is anticipated to set in by October 15 or 16.

The IMD has reported a cyclonic circulation over the southeast Bay of Bengal and adjoining equatorial Indian Ocean, which is expected to develop into a well-marked low-pressure system, bringing significant rainfall to the region within the next 48 hours.

As Tamil Nadu prepares for the onset of the northeast monsoon, some districts have already recorded substantial rainfall, providing relief to certain areas while raising concerns of waterlogging and flooding in others. 

The IMD has also issued a warning to fishermen, advising against venturing into the sea until October 17 due to rough sea conditions and gusty winds. ANI