Cyclone brewing in Bay of Bengal; Tamil Nadu alert
The Regional Meteorological Centre has issued a cyclone alert for Tamil Nadu, warning of heavy rainfall and prompting the closure of schools and colleges across several districts for safety.
Tamil Nadu on High Alert as Cyclone Threatens; Schools and Colleges Closed Amid Heavy RainTamil Nadu: As the Northeast monsoon intensified across the state, authorities in Tamil Nadu have issued a flurry of warnings, prompting schools and colleges to close across multiple districts. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has issued both a cyclone alert and heavy rainfall warnings for several regions, signaling the arrival of potentially hazardous weather in the coming days.
RMC Director B. Amudha explained that a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has strengthened into a well-marked low-pressure system, situated roughly 400 km from Chennai. This is expected to occur off the coasts of north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh,” she said, highlighting the need for vigilance among residents.
In response to the warnings, the state government has announced precautionary closures. The Chennai district administration confirmed that all schools in the city would remain closed on Wednesday due to persistent heavy rainfall. Similar orders have been issued for Cuddalore, Villupuram, Ranipet, Chengalpattu, and Trichy, where both schools and colleges will remain shut. In Thoothukudi, only schools are closed, while Salem and Pudukottai have also declared school holidays.
An orange alert has been issued for Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Kallakurichi, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari, signaling heavy rainfall and potential disruptions in daily life.
Waterlogging and Local ImpactThe heavy rainfall has already started to affect daily life in several areas. Severe waterlogging was reported in parts of Pudukottai, where streets and low-lying areas have been submerged. Local residents described difficulties navigating through waterlogged roads and the growing anxiety as rainfall continued unabated.
Officials visiting the affected areas noted that residents were cooperative and patient, politely reporting water stagnation and trusting that local authorities and representatives would take the necessary measures to address the situation. Such collaborative communication between citizens and officials has been crucial in ensuring timely interventions and avoiding further damage or accidents.
Authorities are urging residents to remain indoors as much as possible, avoid venturing into waterlogged areas, and follow updates from the IMD and local administrations. Emergency services, including the fire department, municipal workers, and disaster management teams, are on standby to respond to any urgent situations.
Precautions and Public AdvisoryWith the possibility of the low-pressure system turning into a cyclonic storm, meteorologists have emphasized the importance of preparedness. People living in coastal areas are being advised to secure property, avoid fishing or boating activities, and follow evacuation orders if issued.
Authorities have also stressed the importance of checking drainage systems in towns and cities to prevent severe waterlogging. Residents are encouraged to keep emergency kits ready, including medicines, drinking water, and essential supplies, while schools and workplaces are being asked to remain closed until the system passes safely.
The IMD has assured that it will continue round-the-clock monitoring of the weather system, providing timely updates to the public and coordinating with state authorities to mitigate risks. Residents are urged to stay tuned to official alerts and local news channels for instructions regarding travel restrictions, school closures, and safety advisories.
As the monsoon intensifies and the low-pressure system strengthens, Tamil Nadu braces for more heavy rainfall and potential flooding, underlining the need for vigilance, preparedness, and cooperation between citizens and authorities. The coming days will test the resilience of the state’s infrastructure, emergency services, and communities as they navigate the challenges posed by severe weather.