IMD Issues Red Alert for Tamil Nadu as 16 Districts Face Relentless Rainfall

Image Source : Hindustan Times

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall across 16 districts in Tamil Nadu, including hilly and coastal areas. Intense showers are forecast to continue till October 19, with possible disruptions in transport and agriculture. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant.

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Chennai has issued an alert for widespread heavy rainfall in 16 districts of Tamil Nadu over the coming week. The forecast highlights intense rainfall activity affecting the Western Ghats, interior regions, and the city of Chennai, signaling a continuation of recent rain disturbances.

On October 14 and 15, heavy downpours are expected in the hilly areas of Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Theni, and Tenkasi. Additionally, the hill belts of Tiruppur, Erode, Dharmapuri, Salem, Namakkal, Karur, Dindigul, Madurai, Virudhunagar, Tiruchirappalli, Kallakurichi, and Tiruvannamalai districts will experience strong rain spells.

The heavy rain warning extends to the coastal districts of Kanniyakumari, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, and Sivaganga, as well as various other districts, with isolated heavy showers forecast across Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai. Chennai itself may see moderate rain accompanied by thunder and lightning.

The persistent heavy rainfall is attributed to a low-pressure system over the southwest Bay of Bengal and easterly wind activity amplifying precipitation. Recent weeks have already witnessed flooding and landslides in several areas, prompting authorities to release water from reservoirs as precautionary measures.

Important Points

Districts Affected: 16 districts including Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Salem, Madurai, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari, and others
Duration: Intense rain likely until October 19, 2025
Weather Conditions: Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds 30-40 km/h
Risks: Flooding, landslides in hilly areas, transport disruptions
Government Actions: Water release from dams, round-the-clock monitoring, disaster management preparedness
Public Advisory: Avoid unnecessary travel, secure crops and properties in vulnerable zones

Major Takeaways

Continuous heavy rain signals the tail impact of the southwest monsoon withdrawal phase.
Hilly and coastal districts remain under high alert for potential floods and landslides.
Authorities emphasize readiness and caution to minimize damage and ensure public safety.
Farmers are advised to secure harvested crops and reinforce bunds around fields.

The IMD’s warning serves as a crucial advisory to residents and authorities in Tamil Nadu, urging vigilance and preparedness during this extended period of heavy rainfall.

Sources: Times of India, The News Minute, IMD official release, Mathrubhumi

Stay Ahead – Explore Now! Cool Stops, Cooler Roofs: Ahmedabad’s Blueprint for Surviving a Fiery Summer