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Unrelenting Rainfall in Chennai and Suburbs
Chennai Rain Alert: Since Tuesday night, Chennai and its suburbs have been battered by heavy rain, causing waterlogging in various areas. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has issued a significant weather alert, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall for Chennai and neighboring districts on December 2 and 3. Additionally, the delta and coastal regions are expected to experience substantial rainfall in the coming days.
Meteorological Predictions
According to the meteorological bulletin, the anticipated weather conditions are a result of a cyclonic circulation over Sri Lanka and neighboring regions in the lower tropospheric levels, coupled with a Low-Pressure System. This combination is expected to bring light to moderate rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal, with isolated heavy rain along coastal and adjoining districts from November 29 to December 3, 2023.
Impact on Chennai: Waterlogging and Commuter Challenges
The ongoing heavy rain since Tuesday night has led to waterlogging in various parts of Chennai and its suburbs. Areas like Chromepet on GST Road witnessed sluggish vehicular movement on Wednesday morning due to stagnant water. In some parts of the city, ankle-deep water hindered commuters, making it challenging to reach their destinations. Responding to the situation, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) updated citizens, assuring that officials are actively managing the unexpected downpour.
Immediate Measures by GCC
The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has taken immediate action on the ground to handle the repercussions of the heavy rain. The sudden downpour caught many residents off guard, and the corporation’s swift response aims to alleviate the difficulties faced by commuters and residents.
Chennai Rain Alert: Weather Forecast for the Coming Days
Chennai Rain Alert: For the next two days, heavy rain is expected at isolated places in Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chennai, Chengalpattu, as well as in Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, and Thoothukudi. On December 1, heavy rain is likely to occur in isolated places over Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, and Pudukottai districts.
Orange Alert for December 2 and 3
The significant announcement is the issuance of an orange alert for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Villupuram districts on December 2 and December 3. This alert signifies the potential for heavy to very heavy rainfall during this period. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea on these dates.
Chennai Schools Declare Holiday: IMD Issues Orange Alert
Chennai Rain Alert, School declare holiday: In response to the heavy rainfall, the Tamil Nadu government has declared a holiday for schools in Chennai on Thursday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Chennai and adjacent districts on December 2 and 3, indicating the possibility of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. The IMD’s official handle emphasized the need for alertness and preparation, warning of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal between December 2 and 3.
IMD’s Weather Forecast for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry
The IMD’s forecast includes the probability of heavy rainfall at specific locations in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. This anticipated rainfall is expected to persist for three consecutive days starting Thursday. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has also urged people to brace for heightened rainfall in the coming days.
Cyclonic System Formation
The IMD has observed the formation of a well-marked low-pressure area in the Southeast Bay of Bengal and the adjoining South Andaman Sea. This system is predicted to intensify into a cyclonic storm in the next few days, contributing to the ongoing weather conditions. Squally weather with wind speeds ranging from 40-45 kmph is anticipated over the South Andaman Sea and the adjoining North Andaman Sea, as per the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC).
Greater Chennai Corporation’s Advisory
Due to the heavy rain and the expected weather conditions, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has advised residents to stay indoors for their safety. The corporation’s active engagement on the ground aims to manage the sudden downpour and its implications on the city.
Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema Rain Forecast
As per IMD forecast bulletin, the Well Marked Low Pressure Area over Southeast Bay of Bengal & adjoining South Andaman Sea moved west-northwestwards and now lay over Southeast Bay of Bengal at 0530 hours IST of today, the 30th November. It is likely to move west-northwestwards and intensify into a Depression over Southeast Bay of Bengal during next 24 hours. This may result into Light to moderate rainfall at most places with isolated heavy rainfall is likely over Coastal Andhra Pradesh during 2nd to 4th December.
Conclusion
As Chennai grapples with continuous heavy rainfall, the orange alert issued by the MeT department serves as a crucial warning for residents and authorities. The immediate impact on transportation, education, and daily life necessitates preparedness and caution. The evolving weather conditions, coupled with the formation of a potential cyclonic storm, highlight the need for constant monitoring and adherence to safety measures. Stay informed and stay safe during this period of heightened weather activity in Chennai and its neighboring regions.
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