Thu Oct 17 08:25:37 UTC 2024: ## Chennai Braces for Heavy Rains as Depression Crosses Coast

**Chennai, Tamil Nadu:** The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for seven districts in Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, Vellore, and Ranipet, as a depression over the Bay of Bengal crossed the coast between Puducherry and Nellore early on October 17. The depression, which brought heavy to extremely heavy rainfall to parts of Tamil Nadu, South Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and South Interior Karnataka, weakened into a low-pressure area within 12 hours.

**Heavy Rainfall and Waterlogging:** The IMD predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and surrounding districts. Visuals from the city showed widespread waterlogging, with people wading through knee-deep waters in several areas. Streets and roads were flooded, and public transport services were disrupted.

**Disruption of Services:** Bus services were affected in many areas. Southern Railway cancelled several express trains, including the Chennai Central-Mysuru Kaveri Express, due to waterlogging. Several domestic flights were also cancelled due to low passenger turnout.

**Government Response:** Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin announced a public holiday on October 16 to mitigate the impact of the rainfall. He also announced free food in Amma canteens in Chennai to support the poor and ordinary people. The Deputy Chief Minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, assured the public that the government was prepared to face any challenges posed by the rainfall and had appointed nodal officers for all zones.

**Chennai Airport and Metro Rail Services:** Chennai Airport, in coordination with MTC Chennai, arranged special bus services for passengers due to disruptions caused by the rain. Chennai Metro Rail Services also increased their frequency to support commuters.

**Impact on City:** The heavy rainfall caused severe waterlogging in various parts of Chennai, including Superstar Rajinikanth’s luxurious villa in Poes Garden. The city’s infrastructure bore the brunt of the downpour, with traffic congestion and disruptions to public transport.

**Warnings and Precautions:** The IMD advised fishermen not to venture out to sea. The public was urged to remain alert and take necessary precautions. The Andhra Pradesh Disaster Management Authority also issued warnings about heavy rainfall and strong winds in coastal areas.

As the situation continues to evolve, the IMD and local authorities will continue to monitor the weather and provide updates.

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