Chennai on Track for Heavy Rainfall: Residents Brace for the Next Few Days
With the monsoon season still holding sway over southern India, Chennai has found itself under the cloud of yet another weather warning. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Chennai and its neighboring districts, signifying the potential for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and associated risks. This alert is set to last until November 12, bringing with it predictions of significant downpours due to the presence of cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal.
The genesis of this impending deluge can be traced back to the cyclonic system now positioned over the southern part of the Bay, creating conditions ripe for rainfall across Tamil Nadu. According to meteorological officials, the effects of this weather system will begin to manifest as areas like Kancheepuram and Chengalpattu are expected to see severe weather starting Thursday.
N. Senthamarai Kannan, the director of the Regional Meteorological Centre, expressed the occurrence of moderate to heavy rains is anticipated across the city, noting, "On Thursday, we anticipate moderate to heavy rainfall. Rain activity could continue for at least four days, though it may be lighter after Thursday.” He added the uncertainty around the timing of rainfall, highlighting it could occur either during the day or night, complicates preparations for local residents.
Local weather blogger Pradeep John weighed in on the patterns, underlining the anticipated rains could strike various catches: "Chennai, Kancheepuram, and Tiruvallur would see rain for the next two days before the weather moves south toward the coastal regions,” he noted, helping residents adjust their plans accordingly.
For those keeping score, meteorological experts have pinched out predictions of rainfall reaching as much as 12 centimeters within 24 hours. Following Wednesday’s drizzles, including 8 millimeters registered at Ennore Port, it foreshadows the kind of weather the city can expect – sufficiently damp, to say the least!
While cities prepare themselves for the wet onslaught, the IMD has also highlighted several districts such as Theni and Madurai will experience heavy rains. Alerts have been broadcasted widely, advising residents to buckle up and plan accordingly, especially those residing along the coastal stretches. Areas likely to feel the brunt also include Villupuram and Cuddalore.
Previous rainfall trends have revealed how persistent rains can escalate concerns, especially for communities living near water bodies. The freshwater sources like the Vaigai Dam are also witnessing increases, creating positions for possible flood alerts later if levels continue to rise.
Fishermen have been especially cautioned against venturing out to sea during this period, with predictions of squally winds developing as the weather system strengthens. These winds could reach alarming speeds of 35 to 45 kilometers per hour, presenting potential hazards for those at sea.
2023 has been bountiful for rainfall, significantly above average for most regions, and early data suggests the trend is set to persist as the month progresses. The last three days have shown substantial accumulations, with reports highlighting rainfall figures skyrocketing past 219 millimeters across Tamil Nadu, articulately exceeding expected norms.
The situation delivers another wake-up call on readiness and urban resilience amid nature's course. Local residents are urged to remain vigilant, particularly since weather patterns can shift rapidly, especially during the northeastern monsoon season.
Indeed, the warning is clear: with the cyclonic winds and cloud masses swirling overhead, Chennai has entered another chapter of weather frenzy, urging everyone, from commuters to coastal communities, to keep their umbrellas handy and stay alert for updates from meteorology authorities. Ward off any planning hiccups; this is one alert no one wants to ignore!
