Intense rainfall lashed parts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala as a well-marked low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal intensified into a depression. The system moved northwestward, bringing heavy downpours across coastal and interior regions of both states and prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue multiple alerts.
In Tamil Nadu, the northeast monsoon triggered widespread flooding and infrastructure strain. Several districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Ranipet, experienced extremely heavy rainfall, with totals exceeding 20 cm in isolated areas.
Major reservoirs like Chembarambakkam and Poondi saw a sharp rise in inflows, leading authorities to open floodgates to manage water levels and reduce flood risks. The Chembarambakkam reservoir, a key drinking water source for Chennai, recorded an inflow of 2,170 cubic feet per second, with water discharged into the Adyar River.
Southern districts such as Ramanathapuram, Sivaganga, and Kanyakumari reported heavy rainfall, waterlogging, and disruptions to daily life, while the Vaigai Dam approached full capacity, prompting flood alerts for multiple districts.
Kerala also faced severe rainfall, with red alerts issued for Idukki, Palakkad, and Malappuram districts, anticipating rainfall exceeding 20 cm within 24 hours. Educational institutions in these areas were closed as a precaution, while orange alerts were declared for other districts, including Kozhikode, Wayanad, and Kottayam. Residents were urged to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow local authorities’ guidance to ensure safety.
Authorities in both states warned of continued heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across southern India, with potential travel disruptions, power outages, and localized flooding. Residents are advised to stay indoors during heavy rains and monitor updates from official sources to mitigate risks.
