Heavy rain is expected across the western parts of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting intense showers in Nilgiris, Erode and Coimbatore districts.
The rainfall is associated with the remnants of Cyclone Ditwah, which weakened into a deep depression and later into a low-pressure area near the Tamil Nadu coast.
Chennai and its neighbouring districts – Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu and Kanchipuram – continued to receive steady rain from early morning, following two days of persistent downpour triggered by the Bay of Bengal weather system. Several arterial roads, residential areas and low-lying neighbourhoods in and around Chennai reported waterlogging, affecting daily activities and slowing vehicular movement.
According to the IMD, the system weakened further near the coast on Tuesday morning. Despite this, widespread rainfall persisted across northern Tamil Nadu, with intermittent showers recorded in Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu and Kanchipuram through the day.
In view of the heavy rain, district administrations declared a holiday for all schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur and Kanchipuram on Wednesday. Officials said the decision was taken due to flooded stretches, waterlogged school zones and the continued likelihood of moderate to heavy showers. In Chengalpattu, only schools have been closed, while colleges will function. Ranipet district, specifically Arakkonam and Nemili taluks, has also declared a holiday for schools.
Schools will remain closed in Cuddalore, Kallakurichi and Villupuram districts as well.
The IMD has also warned of thunderstorms with lightning in parts of Puducherry, Karaikal and other regions of Tamil Nadu.
Nilgiris, Erode and Coimbatore may receive heavy rain at one or two locations, while districts such as Tiruppur, Theni, Dindigul, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari, Salem and Namakkal are likely to receive isolated heavy showers.
Authorities have urged residents, especially those in vulnerable and hilly areas, to remain cautious. Disaster management teams in northern and western districts are on alert for any rain-related emergencies.
With the northeast monsoon active and the weakened system lingering near the coast, the IMD has advised the public to follow local weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel in rain-affected areas.
(IANS)