Tamil Nadu weather: Chennai, 10 other districts on orange alert; school closed

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An orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall is currently in effect for several districts in Tamil Nadu and the capital, Chennai, today due to an active low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. According to the weather agency, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in the southern state over the next four days.

Districts under orange alert

The orange alert, indicating very heavy rainfall (12 to 20 cm), has been issued for the following districts in Tamil Nadu, as well as the Puducherry and Karaikal regions

Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Ariyalur, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Pudukkottai and Ramanathapuram districts of Tamil Nadu have been placed under an orange alert.

Light to moderate rainfall is expected in other districts such as Tiruvallur, Kallakurichi, and Perambalur. The low-pressure area is expected to move west-northwestwards over the next 24 hours, continuing the intense weather over the southern state for the next four days.

Avoid unnecessary travel

In view of the heavy downpour, the Tamil Nadu government has urged various districts to take precautionary measures. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Gulf of Mannar and Kanniyakumari sea areas, as squally winds are expected to blow at speeds of 35–45 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 55 kmph, the advisory said.

Tamil Nadu school holiday

School holidays have been declared in Chennai and other districts following heavy rain alert. After persistent overnight rain and flooding in low-lying areas, district collectors have declared a holiday on November 17 for all government, private, and aided schools.

Authorities have also issued safety advisories, urging parents to avoid unnecessary travel as several major roads in Chennai remain waterlogged.