Seven teams from the 4th Battalion of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), including two canine units, have been mobilized in anticipation of heavy to very heavy rainfall predicted in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry from November 26 to 28. Each team comprises 30 rescuers and will be deployed in districts such as Karaikal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, reported that the depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into a deep depression and is likely to develop into a cyclonic storm on November 27.
Current Weather Conditions
Chennai and its suburbs have been experiencing widespread rainfall since Tuesday morning. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts continued light to moderate rain with occasional heavy downpours until November 28.
S. Balachandran, Director of the RMC, Chennai, said:
“As of now, yesterday’s depression has intensified this morning into a deep depression. It is likely to further intensify into a cyclonic storm and move northwards, towards the Tamil Nadu coast.”
The IMD forecasts that the system will move north-northwestwards, potentially skirting the Sri Lankan coastline before reaching the Tamil Nadu coast. Authorities are closely monitoring the storm’s development and trajectory.
Weather Alerts and Preparedness
- A red alert has been issued for extremely heavy rainfall in three central districts on November 26 and two districts on November 27.
- Chennai is under a yellow alert for heavy rainfall from November 27 to 29. Neighboring districts like Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpattu are under yellow and orange alerts during the same period.
Due to continuous rainfall, some streets in Chennai’s suburbs are inundated, causing waterlogging and mixing with sewage. Many residents are avoiding venturing out.
Impact on Schools and Colleges
To ensure safety, authorities have declared holidays for schools and colleges in Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Tiruvarur.
Rainfall Forecast
- November 26: Heavy to very heavy rain in Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Karaikal, and isolated heavy rain in districts such as Chennai, Cuddalore, Ariyalur, and Puducherry.
- November 27: Light to moderate rain in many places, with isolated thunderstorms and lightning.
- November 28: Light to moderate rain in some areas, with thunderstorms and lightning mainly in coastal Tamil Nadu and parts of interior Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal.