Chennai weather: IMD issues week-long alert as heavy rains brings city to standstill

Chennai rains

Chennai is facing severe disruption as heavy rains have brought the city to a near standstill. Flooded streets and waterlogged areas are making life difficult for residents. Some of the worst-hit areas include Velachery, Medavakkam, Pallikaranai, and Neelankarai along the East Coast Road (ECR).

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Chennai on Tuesday, while an orange alert has been sounded from Wednesday, October 22, to Friday, October 24, as more rain is expected throughout the week.

The continuous downpour has flooded main roads, slowed traffic, and disturbed daily routines. Low-lying neighbourhoods are particularly affected, with overflowing drains and knee-deep water reported.

VIDEO | Chennai: Heavy rains lash the city and suburbs including Velachery, Medavakkam, Pallikaranai, and ECR Neelankarai.

(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/8VWUANiE6I

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 20, 2025

Many commuters in south Chennai are struggling to pass through flooded streets. Authorities have advised people to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel, as heavy rainfall is likely to continue.

According to the IMD, moderate rain and thunderstorms are expected over Chennai, Chengalpattu, Cuddalore, Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Puducherry, Karaikal, and nearby districts on Tuesday.

Likely formation of Low Pressure System over Bay of Bengalhttps://t.co/Qx9Ds6FTFm pic.twitter.com/F7BrhDBNzo

— IMD-Tamilnadu Weather (@ChennaiRmc) October 20, 2025

The coastal areas of Tamil Nadu may experience continuous rainfall until October 22. On Sunday, Chief Minister MK Stalin reviewed the situation and instructed officials to move people living in low-lying and coastal areas to safer locations.

Why such heavy rains?

The heavy rains are caused by a low-pressure system forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal. This system is expected to move northwest and strengthen into a deep depression, which could bring more widespread rain to the coastal areas of Tamil Nadu in the coming days.

Chennai weather forecast

The IMD has predicted mostly cloudy skies with heavy rain, leading to cooler temperatures and rising humidity in Chennai on Tuesday. The wet conditions are expected to continue through Wednesday, with possible thunderstorms adding to the high humidity.

On October 23 and 24, overcast skies and persistent heavy rain may reduce visibility and affect outdoor activities, while temperatures remain moderate.

By October 25, rain may become moderate with occasional downpours and possible afternoon or evening thunderstorms. On October 26, skies are expected to be partly cloudy, with chances of rain or thunderstorms and brief sunny intervals amid unsettled weather.

Residents are advised to stay cautious, avoid flooded roads, and follow official guidance as Chennai continues to face challenging weather conditions.