Heavy Rain Forces Closure of Schools in Chennai and Puducherry

Due to heavy rainfall across Tamil Nadu, schools in Chennai, Thiruvallur district, and Puducherry have been closed today. The weather department has predicted more showers in six districts, including Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Thiruvarur, Thanjavur, and Villupuram. In the last 24 hours, Velankanni in Nagapattjnam received a staggering 17 cm of rainfall, while Cuddalore, Puducherry, Chengalpattu, and Chennai also experienced significant downpours.

Fishermen have been advised to refrain from venturing into the sea as a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is expected to develop into a depression. Tamil Nadu has received 221 mm of rain since October 1, which is 17% below the normal average. The ongoing Northeast Monsoon is crucial for the state’s drinking water and irrigation requirements.

In response to the upcoming crisis, Chief Minister M K Stalin has dispatched ministers to oversee preparations in Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, and Nagapattinam districts. Senior bureaucrats have also been assigned to monitor the situation in 13 other districts. Concerned citizens can contact the control room via phone at 1070 and 1077 or through WhatsApp at 9445869848.

Many water bodies, including reservoirs, are filling up rapidly, while low-lying areas in Cuddalore are submerged. In the delta region, large areas of standing paddy crops remain underwater. Farmers are concerned about significant crop losses if the rainfall continues without a chance for drainage.

Fortunately, Chennai has not experienced major waterlogging, thanks to the newly constructed stormwater drains. Although some sections are still unfinished, the Greater Chennai Corporation assures that they are closely monitoring these areas for immediate action.