Tamil Nadu is bracing for heavy rainfall as the northeast monsoon picks up momentum, prompting school closures across several districts. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has issued alerts, predicting torrential downpours and thunderstorms affecting ten districts, including prominent Delta and southern regions. This weather pattern is primarily attributed to intensified atmospheric conditions over the Gulf of Mannar, which have led to the accumulation of moisture and subsequent rainfall.
On November 19, 2024, various district collectors including B Priyanka Pankajam from Nagapattinam, K. Elambahavath from Thoothukudi, and T Manikandan from Karaikal confirmed the extended school holidays. While all schools and colleges were closed in Karaikal, Thoothukudi decided to maintain regular operations for colleges, allowing only school closures. Meanwhile, Thanjavur district authorities have left the decision to individual school heads based on local observations.
Notable districts where holiday declarations were made include Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, and Thoothukudi. The RMC highlighted concerns for Delta regions, which include Tiruvarur and Mayiladuthurai, as well as the southern districts like Sivaganga and Ramanathapuram. Heavy rainfall is forecasted to persist through the day, raising fears of possible flooding and disruption to normal life.
Officials are advising residents to stay vigilant and limit travel during this tumultuous weather. The collectors have urged families to keep abreast of updates and take necessary precautions to safeguard against potential hazards such as waterlogging and slippery roads.
Within Chennai, light to moderate rain is anticipated, but conditions are monitored closely. Temperatures may vary between 25°C and 32°C, providing little relief amid the dampness.
RMC’s forecasts have articulated heavy rain alerts for the upcoming days, estimating continued showers across Tamil Nadu and nearby Puducherry. Over the next five days, moderate to heavy rain is likely, particularly within delta and southern districts, necessitating close attention from residents.
The current deluge is characteristic of the northeast monsoon, which regularly affects the region from October to December, significantly contributing to the agricultural water supply. Nevertheless, when these rains are excessively heavy, flooding and infrastructure challenges can pose additional risks, especially for those residing in low-lying areas.
Given the conditions, parents and students are encouraged to monitor their schools for any updates or changes. While cancellations of school sessions are to be taken seriously, local and district authorities are prepared to reassess the situation should rainfall patterns shift significantly over the coming days.
The atmosphere over the Bay of Bengal is being closely monitored, with predictions of the formation of low-pressure systems likely bringing more rain to coastal Tamil Nadu by November 23. Residents are urged to adhere to any safety recommendations from local advisories and be prepared for unfavorable weather over the next week.
With this backdrop of flooding and rainfall risks, the impact on public transport and daily activities across Tamil Nadu cannot be understated. Streets across the affected regions have already reported flooding, leading officials to advise minimal travel except for urgent needs. This situation serves as a reminder of the significant role weather plays in daily life and the importance of preparedness during the monsoon season.
To conclude, as heavy rains continue to sweep through Tamil Nadu, authorities remain on high alert, emphasizing the necessity for residents to stay informed and prepared for any potential challenges this northeast monsoon may bring.
