IMD Issues Orange & Yellow Alerts Across Tamil Nadu as Thunderstorms Loom

GG News Bureau
Chennai, 22nd Nov: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded orange and yellow alerts across multiple districts of Tamil Nadu for the next three hours, warning residents to brace for “moderate” to “light to moderate” rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas.

According to the Chennai Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), districts including Kanyakumari, Tenkasi, Thoothukkudi and Tirunelveli fall under an orange alert, with weather officials predicting moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning. The department cautioned that sudden spells of rain may lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas, slippery roads, and disruptions in traffic movement, especially during evening peak hours.

Meanwhile, a yellow alert has been issued for an extensive stretch of the state, including Ramanathapuram, Sivagangai, Virudhunagar, Theni, Madurai, Pudukottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Karur, Salem, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Kallakurichy, Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu, Chennai, Thiruvallur, Ranipet and Vellore. Puducherry and Karaikal have also been included in the warning zone.

The RMC reported sustained wind speeds between 41–61 kmph over the southern districts, while eastern regions are likely to continue experiencing moderate winds. Authorities warn that strong winds coupled with wet roads may reduce visibility and pose challenges to motorists.

In total, 17 districts across the state are under weather warnings, including four under orange alert until 4 PM. The IMD has urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors during thunderstorms, and keep children and elderly individuals safe from lightning-prone open areas.

Disaster management teams and local administrations have been alerted to remain on standby for any emergency response. Municipal bodies in Chennai, Madurai and Tirunelveli have already deployed additional field workers to clear drainage channels in case of sudden waterlogging.

With rainfall activity intensifying late into November, weather officials say the pattern aligns with the Northeast Monsoon, which remains active over the Tamil Nadu coastline. The IMD is expected to issue updated forecasts depending on cloud movement and developing atmospheric conditions.

Residents have been encouraged to monitor official weather bulletins and rely on government advisories rather than unverified social media alerts.