Chennai Weather Update: IMD Issues Orange Alert For Heavy Rain In Tamil Nadu; Schools Stay Closed In Several Districts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued an orange alert for Chennai and several northern coastal districts of Tamil Nadu, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall triggered by a strengthening low-pressure system over the southwest Bay of Bengal. Anticipating possible waterlogging and disruption, district authorities announced school holidays for several affected areas. The alert marks another active phase of the northeast monsoon, which has already brought scattered heavy rain to southern parts of the state this season.

Storm Warning And Current Forecast

According to the IMD, a low-pressure area has formed over the southwest Bay of Bengal, near the Sri Lankan coast, supported by a cyclonic circulation extending up to mid-tropospheric levels. This system is expected to move slowly west-northwest, resulting in intense rainfall bands over coastal Tamil Nadu.

Seven northern coastal districts, namely, Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam and Tiruvarur (including Karaikal), have been placed under orange alert. The IMD forecast predicts intermittent heavy showers through the afternoon and evening for Chennai, with temperatures hovering around 27 degrees celsius.

Rainfall recorded in the past 24 hours included moderate to heavy showers in pockets of the delta and southern districts. Some locations in Kanyakumari, Mayiladuthurai and Cuddalore recorded between 3 cm and 6 cm of rainfall.

Marine warnings have also been issued, with rough seas expected along the Gulf of Mannar and the Kanyakumari coast. Wind speeds may reach 35 to 45 km/h, gusting up to 55 km/h. Fishing communities have been advised not to venture into the sea until conditions improve.

Schools, Local Disruptions, And Advisories

To prevent inconvenience and ensure safety, authorities declared school holidays in Chennai, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur. In some northern districts where morning conditions remained stable, schools continued to function, but officials urged parents to monitor district-level announcements through the day as weather conditions may change rapidly.

Advisories issued for residents include avoiding waterlogged stretches, postponing non-essential travel during intense spells and staying alert for falling tree branches or damaged power lines. Commuters have been asked to expect delays on busy city corridors such as GST Road, OMR, ECR and Anna Salai, where waterlogging typically develops quickly during heavy rain.

Parents have been encouraged to verify school-specific updates, as some private institutions may announce closures independently. Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to keep emergency numbers handy and ensure that mobile phones remain charged in case of power disruptions.

Recent Rainfall History And Seasonal Context

The current weather system arrives after a brief lull in Chennai’s monsoon activity. The northeast monsoon, which typically accounts for the bulk of rainfall in coastal Tamil Nadu, has been active in phases this year. Heavy rains earlier this month affected southern districts such as Tirunelveli, Tenkasi and Thoothukudi, where schools were shut on multiple occasions due to localised flooding.

In Chennai, however, rainfall had been sporadic until this new low-pressure system developed over the Bay of Bengal. The IMD’s broader monsoon outlook suggests that coastal and delta districts may continue to experience isolated heavy to very heavy rains over the next couple of days before the system weakens.

What To Expect Next

The IMD expects the low-pressure system to gradually shift closer to the Tamil Nadu coast, with the heaviest rain likely through today. Northern districts may see a reduction in rainfall intensity by Tuesday, while southern and interior regions could see an uptick in showers as the system moves inland.

Residents have been urged to stay indoors during peak downpours, avoid walking or driving through stagnant water and follow updates from local authorities. Fisherfolk and coastal communities are advised to remain alert to marine advisories, as sea conditions are expected to stay rough in the short term.

FAQs

1. Why has the IMD issued an orange alert for Chennai today?

The IMD issued an orange alert due to a strengthening low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, which is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall across Chennai and nearby districts.

2. Are schools closed in Chennai due to the rain?

Yes, schools in Chennai, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur have been closed by district authorities as a precaution due to the risk of waterlogging and intense rainfall.

3. Which districts in Tamil Nadu are under orange alert?

Seven northern coastal districts, including Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam and Tiruvarur, are under orange alert.

4. How much rain has Chennai and Tamil Nadu received recently?

In the past 24 hours, several districts—including Kanyakumari, Mayiladuthurai and Cuddalore—recorded 3 cm to 6 cm of rainfall, with more heavy showers expected today.

5. Is it safe to travel in Chennai during the orange alert?

Travel may be disrupted due to waterlogging, reduced visibility and delays on major roads like GST Road, OMR, ECR and Anna Salai. Non-essential travel should be avoided during peak rain spells.