Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu are currently grappling with persistent heavy rainfall, which has caused significant waterlogging, traffic congestion, and disruptions to daily life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning, indicating that a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal off the Tamil Nadu coast is expected to weaken in the next 24 hours.
According to the weather department’s update, the low-pressure area has moved across the north coastal areas of Tamil Nadu and neighboring regions. While it is predicted to weaken, the IMD has forecast light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas of Kanyakumari, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, and Tirunelveli districts until Thursday morning. The department also cautioned about potential waterlogging, slippery roads, and traffic jams in affected areas.
Chennai’s Weather Forecast
For Chennai specifically, the IMD’s forecast predicts heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning throughout Thursday. Light rain is also anticipated in parts of Chengalpattu, Chennai, and Thiruvallur districts. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and keep track of weather updates.
Northeast Monsoon in Full Swing
The state’s Deputy Chief Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, confirmed that the Northeast monsoon is actively prevailing across Tamil Nadu, with continuous downpours reported in Chennai, Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpattu districts. He mentioned that the monsoon activity is expected to continue and potentially intensify, with forecasts suggesting rainfall could be heavier than the previous year. A review meeting was held to discuss preparedness and response measures for such scenarios.
Agricultural Impact
In terms of agricultural impact, Tamil Nadu minister MRK Panneerselvam reported that approximately 16,000 hectares of farmland have been inundated due to the ongoing monsoon rains. He assured that compensation would be provided to farmers whose crop areas have been damaged by more than 33 percent. The minister also contrasted the current government’s proper storage of procured paddy with the alleged improper storage practices during a previous administration.