The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu as a depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal intensifies. The depression is expected to become a cyclonic storm, named ‘Fengal’, by Wednesday, November 27.
Affected Areas
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai predicts heavy to very heavy rainfall in districts like Mayiladuthurai, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Chengelpet, and Cuddalore. As a result, schools in Chennai, Chengelpet, Cuddalore, and Mayiladuthurai will remain closed, according to reports.
Other areas such as Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Tiruvarur will also close schools and colleges due to the severe weather. This has been affecting the region since Tuesday. The weather department expects light to moderate rainfall across Tamil Nadu, with occasional heavy rain, continuing until Thursday, November 28.
Rainfall Alerts and Forecast
The IMD has issued specific alerts for different areas in Tamil Nadu:
- November 27: Light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and lightning is expected in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. Cuddalore and Mayiladuthurai may experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated areas facing extremely heavy rain. Other districts like Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Kancheepuram will also see heavy rainfall at scattered locations.
- November 28: Light to moderate rain will continue, with thunderstorms and lightning. Coastal Tamil Nadu will see more widespread rainfall, while interior areas will experience scattered showers. Heavy rain is expected in parts of Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu.
The IMD also forecasts heavy rainfall in Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema from November 28 to 30.
State Prepares for Cyclone
Chief Minister MK Stalin held a meeting to assess the state’s preparedness for heavy rains. He directed the deployment of 17 NDRF and State teams to areas at high risk of flooding, such as Chennai, Mayiladuthurai, and Cuddalore.
Chennai and its neighboring districts have already seen mild to moderate rainfall, with some areas experiencing heavy rain. The state has set up 1,634 relief centres, although none have been activated yet. Essential equipment, like generators and boats, is on standby. Volunteers and first responders are also prepared to help if needed.
In addition, state-run Aavin has ensured an uninterrupted milk supply. Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, after inspecting flood-prone areas, urged officials to continue preventive measures, including canal desilting, to manage the expected rainfall.