Northeast monsoon: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in Chennai, schools shut
Chennai witnessed heavy rainfall followed by thunderstorms on Monday with the onset of the northeast monsoon in southern India. The rains also led to waterlogging in many low-lying areas, disrupting traffic. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted fresh rainfall in parts of Tamil Nadu, prompting authorities to shut schools in Chennai and its adjoining districts like Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu. Here's more.
Rainfall to continue till November 4: IMD
According to the IMD, Chennai will remain under the influence of the northeast monsoon this week, with moderate Rainfall, lightning, and thunderstorms expected during the period. The first spell of the monsoon is expected to last until Friday (November 4) in the region. The Tamil Nadu capital city will also likely see maximum and minimum temperatures of 31-32 °C and 25-26 °C, respectively.
Orange alert issued in other districts
Light to moderate rain, along with thunderstorms, is also expected in Puducherry and Karaikal districts throughout the week, said an IMD bulletin. The IMD's Chennai center issued an orange alert, indicating very heavy rains, for TN's Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Ranipet districts on Monday and Tuesday, prompting authorities to close schools there. Meanwhile, a high alert was also issued in Vellore and Tirupathur on Tuesday.
Watch: Video of waterlogged roads in capital city
Emergency response teams formed to deal with flood threat
Meanwhile, Greater Chennai Corporation has dispatched emergency response teams to deal with the flood threat. To prevent electrocution during rains, a team of more than 2,000 workers is inspecting electrical installations, including 2.3 lakh streetlights and 7,000 pillar boxes. "Rainfall is expected for three days in Chennai. Control rooms have been set up in all the 15 zones," a senior official told The Hindu.
CM to review preparedness in crucial meeting
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin will reportedly preside over a high-level meeting on Tuesday to review the monsoon preparedness. The meeting would be attended by several ministers, secretaries of the relevant departments, and other officials. Moreover, Chennai's civic body has set up helplines, like 1913, for reporting civic issues. Chennai residents can also reach the flood control room at 044-25619206, 044-25619207, or 044-25619208.
