Early this morning, a depression over the west-central and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal moved inland, crossing the north Tamil Nadu-South Andhra Pradesh coastline between Puducherry and Nellore.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed the system’s position at around 4:30 am near latitude 13.5° N and longitude 80.2° E, just north of Chennai.
Weakening into a Well-Marked Low-Pressure Area
By 5:30 am, the depression had weakened into a well-marked low-pressure area, settling over south coastal Andhra Pradesh and adjoining north coastal Tamil Nadu. According to IMD forecasts, the system is expected to continue moving west-northwestward, gradually weakening further into a low-pressure area over the next 12 hours.
IMD’s Advisory and Future Outlook
The IMD advises residents and local authorities to stay vigilant as the system may still bring scattered rainfall and gusty winds across affected regions.
Orange Alert Issued for Tamil Nadu: Key Updates on Heavy Rainfall Impact
Orange Alert for Heavy Rainfall
The IMD has issued an orange alert for Tamil Nadu districts, including Chennai, Chengalpattu, Cuddalore, Dharmapuri, Kallakurichi, Kancheepuram, Krishnagiri, Ranipet, Tirupattur, Tiruvallur, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore, and Villupuram, as well as Puducherry.
Regional Rainfall Warnings
Southern Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and southern Karnataka are expected to receive rainfall due to an upper air cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal.
Flooding and Waterlogging in Chennai
Heavy rains led to significant waterlogging across Chennai, with visuals showing residents wading through knee-deep water on flooded streets.
Schools, Colleges, and Offices Closed
Schools, colleges, and government offices were closed on October 16 and may remain closed today, though an official statement is awaited.
Transport Disruptions
- Bus services have been disrupted in several areas.
- Southern Railway has cancelled four express trains, including the Chennai Central-Mysuru Kaveri Express, due to waterlogged tracks.
- Several domestic flights were cancelled due to low passenger turnout amid adverse weather.
Disaster Response Efforts
Over 200 boats and multiple disaster response teams have been deployed by the Tamil Nadu government to assist with rescue and relief efforts.
Saumya Joshi Oneindia
