Parts of Tamil Nadu likely to witness heavy rainfall; schools and colleges closed, War Room set up in Chennai

The Indian Meteorological Department had earlier predicted that the Theni district is likely to receive heavy rainfall today

CHENNAI: A War Room has been set up at the Chennai Corporation for monitoring rain-related incidents in the wake of the Indian Meteorological Department's red alert about heavy rainfall in Chennai and parts of Tamil Nadu on Thursday. 

The War Room will be used by the corporation officials for monitoring rain-related incidents and other relief and rescue works in Chennai and other areas.

Meanwhile, the Theni District Collector has announced the closing of all schools and colleges in the district in wake of IMD warning of heavy rainfall in the area on Thursday.

The Indian Meteorological Department had earlier predicted that the Theni district is likely to receive heavy rainfall on Thursday. The IMD, Chennai said that Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Ranipet are expected to receive extremely heavy rainfall due to the low pressure around the coast on Thursday.

Dr S Balachandran, Deputy Director-General of IMD-Chennai, said, "Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Ranipet are expected to receive extremely heavy rainfall as the low-pressure around the coast on Thursday. Ramanathapuram and Thoothukudi districts may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall."

He further said, "Heavy rainfall expected in Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, Salem, Perambalur, Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Pudukkottai, Dindigul, Madurai, Theni, Sivaganga, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi; remaining districts to expect light to moderate rainfall."Balachandran has also advised fishermen against venturing into the sea.

He said, "Fishermen are not advised to venture into the west-central and southwest Bay of Bengal, along the coast of north TN & south Andhra from November 18 onwards."

As many as 14 people have lost their lives in Tamil Nadu due to heavy rains, said Kumar Jayanth, Principal Secretary, Revenue Department on November 11. With the onset of northeastern rains a couple of weeks ago, Tamil Nadu witnessed heavy rains, causing flooding and waterlogging in several parts of the state.