Chennai residents are on high alert as the Meteorological Department forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall in the coming days, specifically on December 2 and 3. The relentless downpour, which commenced on Tuesday night, has resulted in widespread waterlogging across Chennai and its surrounding areas.
Meteorological Forecast
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has issued a weather warning, predicting substantial rainfall not only for Chennai but also for the adjoining districts, delta regions, and coastal areas. The forecast attributes the weather phenomenon to a cyclonic circulation over Sri Lanka and its neighboring regions, coupled with a Low Pressure System.
Rainfall Projections
According to the bulletin released by the RMC, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal are expected to experience light to moderate rainfall. Additionally, coastal and adjoining districts may witness isolated instances of heavy rain during the period from November 29 to December 3, 2023.
Current Situation
As the heavy rain persists, Chennai and its suburbs are grappling with waterlogged streets. Chromepet on GST Road is one of the affected areas where vehicles are moving at a sluggish pace due to stagnant water. In certain parts of the city, ankle-deep water poses challenges for commuters, hindering their journey.
#GCC officials are on ground, working to manage the sudden downpour in #Chennai.
JC (Works) Dr. Sameeran, IAS, inspected the pumping station at Sengai Sivam Bridge, Stephenson Road. #ChennaiCorporation | #ChennaiRains | #HereToServe pic.twitter.com/WGTD8SgD0u
— Greater Chennai Corporation (@chennaicorp) November 29, 2023
Response from Authorities
Acknowledging the severity of the situation, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has provided updates on the ground activities to address the sudden downpour. Officials are actively working to manage the aftermath and alleviate the impact on residents.
Rainfall Distribution
Over the next two days, heavy rainfall is anticipated in isolated areas, including Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chennai, and Chengalpattu. Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, and Thoothukudi are also expected to experience heightened rainfall during this period.
Specific Alerts
On December 1, isolated heavy rain is forecasted for Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, and Pudukottai districts. Further, an orange alert has been issued for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Villupuram districts on December 2 and December 3, indicating the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rain.
Safety Advisory
Considering the adverse weather conditions, fishermen are strongly advised to refrain from venturing into the sea on the specified dates to ensure their safety.
Local Weather Update
For Chennai and its environs, the weather department predicts generally cloudy skies for the next 24 hours. Residents can expect intermittent spells of moderate to heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in some areas. Staying informed and taking necessary precautions is crucial in navigating through these challenging weather conditions.
Navigating the Storm: Chennai’s Preparations for Intense Rainfall
As Chennai braces for the impending heavy to very heavy rainfall on December 2 and 3, residents are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. The Meteorological Department’s forecast, driven by a cyclonic circulation over Sri Lanka and a Low Pressure System, has prompted authorities to issue alerts for various districts, emphasizing the need for preparedness.
City in Chaos: Waterlogging Woes Continue
The ongoing heavy rain, which began on Tuesday night, has resulted in widespread waterlogging in Chennai and its suburbs. Notably, areas like Chromepet on GST Road have witnessed vehicles moving at a snail’s pace due to stagnant water. Commuters in some parts of the city are grappling with ankle-deep water, posing challenges in reaching their destinations.
Swift Response from Greater Chennai Corporation
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has mobilized resources on the ground. Updates on their active efforts to manage the sudden downpour have been communicated to the public. Officials are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact on residents and ensure a prompt response to emerging challenges.
Rainfall Distribution Across Regions
The forecasted heavy rainfall is not limited to Chennai; several districts are expected to bear the brunt of the weather system. Over the next two days, isolated heavy rain is predicted in Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chennai, and Chengalpattu. Additionally, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, and Thoothukudi are on alert for heightened rainfall during this period.
Alerts and Advisory
December 1 brings a specific alert for isolated heavy rain in districts such as Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, and Pudukottai. The subsequent days, December 2 and 3, warrant an orange alert for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Villupuram, signifying the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rain. Fishermen are strongly cautioned against venturing into the sea during these dates.
Adapting to the Weather: Chennai’s Next 24 Hours
As for Chennai and its neighboring areas, the weather department anticipates generally cloudy skies in the next 24 hours. Intermittent spells of moderate to heavy rain, coupled with thunderstorms and lightning in some areas, are expected. Staying informed about local weather updates is crucial, and residents are encouraged to take necessary precautions to navigate through these challenging weather conditions.
In conclusion, as the city prepares for the upcoming weather challenges, a collective effort from residents and authorities is essential to minimize the impact of the anticipated heavy rainfall. Stay tuned for further updates and adhere to safety guidelines to ensure the well-being of everyone in Chennai and its surrounding regions.
