Tamil Nadu Braces for Heavy Rains Until Oct 19: 16 Districts on Alert

Tamil Nadu is set to experience widespread rainfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy downpours across the state until October 19. A developing low-pressure system over the southwest Bay of Bengal, coupled with strong easterly winds, is the primary driver behind these intense weather conditions. Sixteen districts, including major areas like Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Theni, and Tenkasi, are specifically flagged for heavy to very heavy rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday. Other districts such as Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Madurai, and Tiruvannamalai are also anticipated to receive significant rainfall during this period. Coastal districts like Kanniyakumari and Ramanathapuram, along with the hilly regions of Tirunelveli, are under alert for October 15 and 16. Chennai can expect moderate rain with thunderstorms. Residents in low-lying areas are cautioned about potential waterlogging. Previous rainfall this month has already caused disruptions, including flash floods in Coimbatore and Tiruppur, and rising reservoir levels in Salem and Erode, necessitating water releases from dams. The Nilgiris district is particularly vulnerable, with landslides reported near Coonoor and Kotagiri, leading to temporary road closures. The government is actively monitoring the situation, with relief teams on standby for emergency response.