Thu Oct 17 05:05:21 UTC 2024: ## Chennai Braces for Heavy Rains as Depression Approaches

**Chennai, India** – Chennai and surrounding areas in Tamil Nadu are bracing for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall as a depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to make landfall near the city early on October 17th. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for seven districts, including Chennai, Vellore, and Ranipet, with a yellow alert issued for other parts of the state.

The depression, which intensified into a cyclonic storm, is moving northwest at 10 km/h and is currently located approximately 440 km from Chennai. The IMD predicts that the storm will cross the coast between Puducherry and Nellore, close to Chennai, during the early morning hours.

Heavy rain has already caused widespread waterlogging in Chennai, with visuals showing people wading through knee-deep water in several areas. Streets and roads are flooded, and public transport services have been disrupted. Southern Railway has cancelled several trains due to waterlogging, and some domestic flights have been cancelled due to low passenger turnout.

To mitigate the impact of the rains, Chennai Metro Rail Services have increased their frequency and will run with extended operating hours.

The Tamil Nadu government has also announced a public holiday for October 16th, and has set up free food distribution at Amma canteens in Chennai to support those affected by the floods.

The IMD has cautioned fishermen against venturing out to sea and has advised the public to remain alert and take necessary precautions. Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin has stated that the state government has been taking precautionary measures for the past three months and is prepared for the rains.

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