Chennai on red alert as northeast monsoon brings heavy rain; rescue teams deployed

Authorities issued a red alert for Chennai, implying expectations of extremely heavy rainfall over the next 24 hours amid a vigourous northeast monsoon over Tamil Nadu.

The Regional Meterological Centre in Chennai also issued an orange alert for surrounding areas, namely Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu and Thiruvallar districts. It was also issues for western districts of Theni, Coimbatore and Nilgiris.

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The red alert means a forecast of extremely heavy rainfall above 20 cm, and the orange alert means a forecast of very heavy rainfall above 11 cm.

The issued bulleting said Saturday's upper air cyclonic circulation over the northern part of the state and south coastal Andhra Pradesh had become less marked.

Despite this, Chennai and its neighbouring districts saw their first and heavy spell of rains. The weather report mentioned that Parry's Corner in Chennai received the highest rainfall. This was followed by Kathivakkam.

The Greater Chennai Corporation said that pro-active field operations, constant rescue efforts and continued coordination made sure that major areas and subways did not face waterlogging amid severe weather conditions.

A team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and four teams from the Tamil Nadu Disaster Response Force (TNDRF) were deployed on the ground to handle vulnerable areas. Nine relief centres were established, and food was being steadily distributed to residents.

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Rainwater has now been completely cleared from all major bus routes and streets. Pumping operations in remaining low-lying pockets were in final stages and would end shortly, thereby keeping the entire situation under control.

Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay and Minister for Public Works and Youth Welfare and Sports Development, Aadhav Arjuna, visited the Ripon Building, GCC headquarters, following heavy rainfall across the city and red alert.

During his visit, Aadhav Arjuna met teams from NDRF and TNDRF deployed for rescue operations, held consultations, and issued necessary directives regarding rescue and relief measures.