Tamil Nadu is experiencing significant rainfall as a low-pressure system persists over the Bay of Bengal, prompting weather alerts across multiple districts. The India Meteorological Department has activated color-coded warnings as the state prepares for continued precipitation throughout the week.
District-wise Alerts and School Status
The IMD has placed twelve Tamil Nadu districts under yellow alert today, including Ariyalur, Chengalpattu, Chennai, Cuddalore, Kancheepuram, Kanniyakumari, Karur, Ranipet, Thanjavur, Thiruvallur, Tirunelveli, Tiruvannamalai and Viluppuram. This comes after several districts were under orange alert on November 17 due to persistent overnight rainfall.
Educational institutions in Chennai and surrounding districts remained closed on Monday as a precautionary measure against waterlogging and disrupted traffic conditions. However, with no official notification extending the closure, schools have reopened today with classes resuming normal schedules.
Weather Forecast and Regional Impact
According to the latest IMD press release, "Light to moderate rainfall/thunderstorm at most/many places with isolated heavy rainfall very likely over Tamil Nadu during 18th -23rd". The weather agency specifically predicts thunderstorms and lightning will continue across Tamil Nadu until November 21.
The rainfall impact extends beyond Tamil Nadu, with isolated heavy rainfall expected in Kerala until November 20, and again on November 22-23. Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam and Rayalaseema may experience similar conditions on November 18, while the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are likely to see rainfall from November 18-23.
Ground Situation and Precautions
The continuous rainfall through Sunday night resulted in water accumulation in low-lying areas and disruption of traffic movement as streets became inundated. District administrations are monitoring the situation closely and have implemented necessary measures to address any emergencies arising from the weather conditions.
Residents are advised to exercise caution while venturing out and stay updated with the latest weather bulletins from official sources. The IMD has emphasized that thunderstorms with lightning are very likely over Kerala & Mahe during November 17-19, and over Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam and Rayalaseema on November 17 & 18.
