Chennai rain alert: Chennai and several other districts in Tamil Nadu are on alert for moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning as Cyclone Montha moves closer over the Bay of Bengal. The cyclone is located approximately 480 km east of Chennai, prompting the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) to issue a yellow alert for districts including Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, Thiruvallur, Villupuram, and Ranipet.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Montha is expected to bring light to moderate rainfall across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, with chances of heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated areas on Tuesday. Chennai can expect a cloudy sky with significant rainfall, with minimum temperatures around 24°C and maximums near 29°C.
The IMD has cautioned residents about potential waterlogging and slippery roads, advising people to stay indoors and avoid low-lying areas.
Cyclone Montha’s Projected Path and Intensity
RMC Director B Amudha stated that Cyclone Montha is forecast to move north-northwest and is likely to make landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, near Kakinada, by the evening or night of October 28. It is anticipated to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm, with wind speeds potentially reaching 90-100 km/h.
Government Preparedness and Official Statements
Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has assured that the state government is prepared for heavy rainfall and does not expect major damage. He mentioned that even if significant rainfall occurs, the government has taken necessary precautions. Preparations are being closely monitored in North Chennai and Tiruvallur, where rainfall of 50-70 mm is forecast.
The IMD had previously indicated that a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal off the Tamil Nadu coast was expected to weaken within 24 hours. However, updates on October 22, 2025, showed the system moving across north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh, with a possibility of weakening into a low-pressure area.
Water Resources and Preparedness Measures
Health Minister Ma Subramanian reviewed preparedness measures, noting that Chennai’s water bodies currently hold 10,274 million cubic feet of water, with a total storage capacity of 13,222 Mcft. Surplus water has been released in stages to manage potential flooding.
About Cyclone Montha
Cyclone Montha is a tropical storm that originated in the central Bay of Bengal and is currently heading towards the Andhra Pradesh coast. Its intensification into a severe cyclonic storm with high wind speeds is a significant concern for the region.