Chennai Rains: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in three central districts of Tamil Nadu on November 26 and two districts on November 27. Additionally, a yellow alert for heavy rainfall in Chennai will remain in effect from November 27 to 29, with neighbouring districts like Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpet under yellow and orange alerts for November 27-30.
As of Monday night, a depression over the Bay of Bengal, moving at 18 kmph, was located 740 km south-southeast of Nagapattinam and 940 km south-southeast of Chennai. IMD has forecast that it may intensify into a deep depression within 12 hours and approach the Sri Lanka-Tamil Nadu coasts over the next two days.
An RMC weather update said: “It is likely to move nearly north-northwestwards and intensify into a deep depression during the next 12 hours. Thereafter, it is likely to move north-northwestwards towards Sri Lanka–Tamil Nadu coasts during subsequent 2 days.”
Tamil Nadu schools and colleges closed
Authorities have declared holidays for schools and colleges in several regions, including Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Tiruvarur, in anticipation of heavy rains. These Delta districts are expected to experience severe weather conditions starting November 26.
- November 26: Extremely heavy rainfall in Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Tiruvarur.
- November 27: Cuddalore and Mayiladuthurai are likely to receive extremely heavy rainfall.
- November 28-30: Heavy rainfall expected in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpet.
Specific alerts include an orange alert for six districts on November 26 and 27 and three districts on November 28. Yellow alerts are in place for Chengalpet, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur for various dates, with rainfall intensity expected to peak on November 28.
Also Read: Weather today: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, dense fog in Northern India
IMD’s Chennai forecast
Chennai and its suburbs are predicted to experience moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning on Tuesday. Maximum temperatures may reach 29 degrees C-30 degrees C, with minimum temperatures hovering between 24 degrees C and 25 degrees C.
Since October 1, Tamil Nadu has recorded cumulative rainfall of 33 cm, reflecting a 1% deficit, while Chennai has received 55 cm, showing a 9% deficit. Coastal districts are expected to bear the brunt of the weather system before rainfall activity shifts inland if the system moves further north.