Yellow Alert in Chennai Till Nov 22; Isolated Heavy Rains Expected Across TN

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Chennai and several districts across Tamil Nadu, effective from November 19 through November 22, forecasting light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning at isolated locations. This advisory follows an orange alert for the evening of November 18 in key areas including Chennai, Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Cuddalore, Ranipet, Thiruvarur, Tiruvannamalai, and Viluppuram, signaling heightened vigilance amid the onset of intensified monsoon activity.

Affected districts encompass Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Mayiladuthurai, Thiruvarur, Cuddalore, Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, and Viluppuram, with the yellow alert extending until November 23 in select regions such as Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Mayiladuthurai, and Thiruvarur. Isolated instances of heavy rainfall are anticipated between November 19 and 22, escalating to more widespread heavy downpours on November 23 and 24, potentially leading to localized flooding and disruptions in urban and rural areas alike.

The meteorological disturbance stems from the formation of a low-pressure area over the Southeast Bay of Bengal around November 22, expected to intensify and track west-northwestward, drawing moisture from the Bay and fueling prolonged precipitation across coastal Tamil Nadu. This system builds on recent monsoon patterns, contributing to the partly cloudy skies forecasted for November 19 and very likely thunderstorms with lightning persisting through November 22.

Also Read: IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Chennai, 18 Tamil Nadu Districts Amid Heavy Rain Forecast

Authorities have urged residents in the alerted districts to prepare for potential impacts, including waterlogging on roads, traffic snarls, and interruptions to daily routines, as evidenced by the disruptions observed in Chennai on November 17 and the evening of November 18. The IMD's color-coded warnings emphasize proactive measures such as avoiding travel during peak rain hours and monitoring real-time updates to mitigate risks associated with the adverse weather.

This sequence of alerts underscores the recurring challenges posed by the northeast monsoon in Tamil Nadu, where such events have historically strained infrastructure and affected livelihoods in agriculture and transportation sectors. With the low-pressure area poised to evolve, meteorologists continue to monitor its trajectory, advising extended preparedness through November 24 to safeguard public safety and economic activities in the region.

Also Read: IMD Warns Tamil Nadu, Puducherry of Intense Heavy Rainfall as Red Alert Issued