Chennai and several parts of Tamil Nadu are experiencing heavy rainfall as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal moves closer to the coast, prompting weather alerts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The system is expected to influence weather conditions across the state over the next two days, leading to intense showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds in coastal and interior districts.
According to the IMD, the deep depression is currently positioned over the southwest Bay of Bengal and is moving northwestwards. It is likely to cross the Sri Lanka coast before gradually weakening into a depression. However, its impact is expected to be felt strongly in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and adjoining regions.
The weather department has issued orange alerts for districts including Thiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Karaikal, indicating the likelihood of very heavy rainfall. Yellow alerts have been issued for Chennai and several other districts such as Thanjavur, Madurai, Tiruchirapalli, Sivagangai, Cuddalore, and Mayiladuthurai, warning of heavy rain at isolated places.
Chennai has already witnessed intermittent spells of rain, leading to waterlogging in low-lying areas and slower traffic movement during peak hours. Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious, especially in flood-prone localities, and avoid unnecessary travel during intense rainfall periods.
In addition to rain, the IMD has warned of strong winds ranging between 55 and 65 kmph along parts of the Tamil Nadu coast. Sea conditions are expected to remain rough over the southwest Bay of Bengal and the adjoining Indian Ocean region. As a precautionary measure, fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea until the weather system weakens and conditions improve.
Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also likely at isolated places across the state. Emergency services and district administrations have been placed on alert, with officials monitoring the situation closely to respond to any weather-related incidents.
The IMD has urged the public to stay updated with official forecasts and advisories, follow safety instructions, and cooperate with local authorities. With the northeast monsoon still active, further spells of rain cannot be ruled out in the coming days, keeping Tamil Nadu on high weather alert.
