Heavy Rain Triggers Flood Warnings Across Tamil Nadu, Thamirabarani in Spate

Heavy Rain Triggers Flood Warnings Across Tamil Nadu, Thamirabarani in Spate
GG News Bureau
Chennai, 13th Dec. Continuous downpours across Tamil Nadu have led to flooding in several districts, with the Thamirabarani river in spate. Authorities have issued flood warnings for low-lying areas, particularly in the Srivaikuntam and Eral regions of Thoothukudi district, urging residents to move to safer locations.

In Chennai, the Public Works Department (PWD) has issued the first flood warning near the Redhills and Chembarambakkam reservoirs, key sources of drinking water for the city, as water levels have surged dangerously. Discharge from the Poondi dam was increased to 12,000 cusecs this morning from 5,000 cusecs on Thursday evening.

Impact Across the State

• Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli Districts: Revenue officials are evacuating residents in vulnerable areas near the Thamirabarani.
• Chengalpattu District: A stranded bus in Maduranthakam was towed to safety; no injuries were reported.
• Tenkasi District: A Primary Health Centre in Vadakarai was inundated, and rainwater entered the Sankaranarayana temple in Sankarankoil.

Despite the adverse weather, preparations at Thiruvannamalai’s Sri Arunachaleswar temple continued for the Maha Deepam lighting, marking the conclusion of a ten-day festival.

IMD Forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed the heavy rain to a well-marked low-pressure area over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, now located over the Gulf of Mannar. The system is expected to weaken gradually in the next 12 hours. Heavy rainfall is forecast for 14 districts, with residents advised to remain vigilant.

Authorities, including police and rescue services, are working to mitigate the impact of the severe weather, prioritizing the safety of affected communities.