Heavy rains continued to batter Tamil Nadu and its neighboring regions on Tuesday, prompting widespread disruptions and heightened preparedness measures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued warnings of potential cyclonic activity, forecasting the deep depression over the Bay of Bengal to intensify into a cyclonic storm by Wednesday, November 27.
IMD Issues Alerts
According to the IMD, the depression has strengthened into a deep depression and is expected to further intensify. A red alert has been issued for Mayiladuthurai, Karaikal, Thiruvarur, and Nagapattinam districts for November 26. Chennai and nearby areas, including Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur, and Cuddalore, are also bracing for heavy rainfall, with orange and yellow alerts in place till November 30.
Traffic Snarls and Flooded Streets
The incessant downpour led to waterlogging and traffic congestion in several parts of Chennai, including OMR Road. Cauvery delta regions, such as Nagapattinam and Cuddalore, reported significant flooding, raising concerns for residents in low-lying areas.
NDRF Teams Mobilized
Seven National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams from the 4th Battalion, including two canine units, have been deployed across Tamil Nadu. These teams, comprising 30 rescuers each, are stationed in Karaikal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai districts to handle emergency situations.
Government Response
Chief Minister MK Stalin convened a high-level meeting to review the situation and oversee relief efforts. He instructed officials to ensure that relief centers are equipped with all necessary amenities and to evacuate residents from vulnerable areas. District collectors and IAS officials updated the Chief Minister on the preparedness measures, including setting up medical and relief camps.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister KKSSR Ramachandran and Chief Secretary N Muruganandam joined Stalin in monitoring the state’s emergency operations, which are functioning 24×7.
School Closures Announced
Authorities declared holidays for schools and colleges in several districts, including Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Tiruvarur. In neighboring Puducherry, all government and private schools will remain closed on November 27.
Precautionary Measures in Place
State-run dairy supplier Aavin assured uninterrupted milk supply despite the weather conditions, with select parlors in Chennai operating 24×7. Officials emphasized the importance of proactive measures to minimize disruptions and ensure public safety as Tamil Nadu braces for further rainfall and potential cyclone impact.
Sources By Agencies