Tamil Nadu is currently facing intense and persistent rainfall as the Northeast Monsoon intensifies, with the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai issuing red alerts for eight districts and orange alerts for several others including Chennai. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected through October 23, causing waterlogging, flooding, and disrupting daily life.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has initiated comprehensive flood preparedness including relief centres and coordination with district officials. Nearby Kerala is also experiencing heavy rains with red and orange alerts issued for multiple districts, leading to school closures and safety advisories, though with lighter impact compared to Tamil Nadu.
Monsoon Fury in Tamil Nadu
The RMC has declared red alerts signaling extremely heavy rain in eight districts including Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvallur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, and Ramanathapuram. Orange alerts cover Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Kallakurichi, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari, forecasting very heavy rainfall.
Since October 21, Chennai has witnessed substantial rainfall, with areas like Medavakkam recording up to 100 mm in a day. The low-pressure area over the Southwest Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a deep depression, increasing rain intensity and risk of flooding in northern Tamil Nadu districts.
To prevent urban flooding, water is being released from Chembarambakkam reservoir. Residents have reported waterlogging and downed trees disrupting transport, while schools in several districts including Chennai, Chengalpattu, and Cuddalore have declared holidays due to unsafe conditions. Officials advise fishermen not to venture into the sea as winds reach up to 65 kmph along the coast.
Kerala’s Rainfall, Precautionary Measures
Though lesser in intensity than Tamil Nadu, Kerala faces heavy to very heavy rainfall linked to the same monsoon system. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued red alerts for districts such as Idukki and Palakkad with orange and yellow alerts for additional areas.
Authorities have taken preventive actions including school closures and warnings to fishermen. The state remains vigilant for risks of landslides and flooding in vulnerable zones.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The ongoing rains highlight the necessity of adaptive infrastructure and proactive disaster management in monsoon-prone regions. The government’s preparedness efforts are crucial, but equally important is community awareness and cooperation to minimise harm and disruption.
As climate change may increase the frequency and intensity of such events, fostering resilience through sustainable practices and open dialogue is essential.
