Chennai Weather Update: IMD Warns of Moderate Rain, Orange Alert in Place

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Chennai, signalling moderate to heavy rainfall expected until 10 a.m. local time today, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds. The alert, part of a broader weather advisory for Tamil Nadu and neighbouring regions, underscores the monsoon-like conditions gripping the city, where surface winds could reach 41-61 km/h. Residents have been urged to exercise caution, as the downpours could exacerbate urban flooding in a metropolis already prone to seasonal deluges.

This orange alert extends to several districts, including Ariyalur, Chengalpattu, Cuddalore, Kanchipuram, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Ranipet, Thanjavur, Thiruvallur, Thiruvarur, Vellore, and Viluppuram, along with Puducherry and Karaikal. Yellow alerts, indicating lighter but still disruptive rain, cover Dindigul, Kallakurichi, Karur, Perambalur, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Tirupathur, and Tiruvannamalai. Rainfall rates could hit up to 15 mm per hour in isolated pockets, with thunderstorms and lightning posing additional hazards. The IMD attributes this to a cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal, a common precursor to the northeast monsoon's onset in late October.

The forecast for Chennai remains cautious through the week. A yellow alert persists from October 15 to 17, with partly cloudy skies giving way to moderate rain and thunderstorms. Conditions may ease slightly on October 18 and 19, shifting to partly cloudy mornings followed by evening clouds and possible thundershowers with squalls, before stabilising later in the week. While specific temperature details were not provided, the IMD anticipates typical October highs around 32-34°C and lows of 25-27°C, though humidity and rain could make it feel warmer.

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IMD officials emphasised proactive measures, advising residents to plan commutes and outdoor activities carefully to avoid disruptions. Waterlogging in low-lying areas, slippery roads, and traffic snarls are likely, echoing past incidents like the 2023 floods that paralysed the city. Local authorities have activated drainage teams and emergency response units, but experts recommend avoiding flooded zones and using public transport where possible. This alert serves as a timely reminder of Chennai's vulnerability to climate-driven extremes, highlighting the need for enhanced urban resilience.

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