The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an urgent bulletin on Sunday as a depression in the Bay of Bengal rapidly escalated into a deep depression, moving west-northwest at 10 kmph and poised to morph into a full-blown cyclonic storm within 24 hours. Currently centered 790 km east-southeast of Chennai, the system is forecast to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm by October 28 before slamming into the Andhra Pradesh coast near Kakinada, between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to batter coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry over the next day, with isolated areas in Tiruvallur, Chennai, Ranipet, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Puducherriy likely to receive intense downpours. Thunderstorms with lightning are also predicted at scattered locations across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) warned of potential urban flooding, waterlogging, and disruptions in low-lying areas.

Past 24-hour rainfall data underscores the system’s growing influence. Nalumukku in Tirunelveli recorded a maximum of 13 cm, followed by Oothu with 12 cm, while Nerkundram in Chennai saw 1 cm. Chennai and its suburbs are bracing for moderate to heavy spells accompanied by gusty winds and lightning, prompting civic agencies to deploy pumps and clear drainage channels in flood-prone zones.

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Fishermen have been strictly advised to avoid venturing into the sea from October 26 to 28, with those already at deep sea urged to return immediately. The IMD warned of rough to very rough sea conditions, with wind speeds likely to exceed 55–65 kmph along and off the Tamil Nadu–Andhra coast as the system strengthens. Coastal hutments, power lines, and unsecured structures face heightened risk of damage.

The system, currently positioned 610 km west of Port Blair and 850 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam, is tracking a northwest trajectory that will bring its core impact to Andhra Pradesh. However, Tamil Nadu will experience the outer rain bands, potentially triggering landslides in the Western Ghats and flash floods in southern districts. Disaster response forces are on standby, with NDRF teams pre-positioned in Chennai, Cuddalore, and Nagapattinam.

As the cyclone gathers strength, authorities have urged residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid waterlogged roads, and monitor official updates. Schools in coastal districts remain under watch for possible closure if conditions deteriorate. The IMD’s next bulletin, due Monday morning, will provide critical updates on intensity, landfall timing, and expanded rainfall warnings.

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