Chennai: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kanchipuram districts on Wednesday, December 18. This warning signals potential flooding and disruptions in the region.

The Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai stated that these districts might continue to experience heavy rainfall on Thursday as well. A statement from the IMD noted, “Heavy to very heavy rain is likely at isolated places over Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kancheepuram districts.”

Yellow Alert for Other Areas

In addition to the orange alert, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for Villupuram and Cuddalore districts, as well as Puducherry, indicating the likelihood of heavy rain in these areas. However, skies in these regions are expected to clear by Thursday. 

Weather Conditions and Forecast

Satellite imagery has revealed convective cloud formations linked to a low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal. This system is expected to intensify and move west-northwestward toward the Tamil Nadu coast within the next two days.

Strong winds, with speeds ranging from 35 to 45 kmph and gusts up to 55 kmph, are likely to affect the north coastal areas of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. Meanwhile, other districts in Tamil Nadu are expected to have clear skies throughout the week.

Fishermen Advised to Stay Cautious

Fishermen in the affected regions have been warned about squally weather conditions. The IMD reported that winds with speeds between 35 kmph and 45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph, are expected along the Tamil Nadu coast, the Gulf of Mannar, and the adjoining Comorin area.

Waterlogging and Relief Measures

Heavy rains over the weekend caused severe waterlogging in several areas of Thoothukudi and its surroundings. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was deployed to assist with relief efforts in Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Thoothukudi districts. Another NDRF team was stationed in the Radhapuram area of Tirunelveli to aid local authorities.

Thoothukudi and nearby districts reportdly received moderate to heavy rainfall on Friday, while Trichy experienced continuous downpours.