Heavy rain warning, Tamil Nadu tells IT firms to allow WFH from October 15 to 18

Greater Chennai Corporation has bought 36 boats as a precautionary measure amid heavy rainfall even as the city gears up for the North East monsoon.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has instructed authorities to declare a holiday for schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Chengalpattu districts for October 15 following the meteorological department’s forecast of heavy rain.

The chief minister on October 14, who reviewed the state's monsoon preparedness, also directed authorities to issue an advisory allowing employees of IT companies in the four districts to work from home from October 15 to 18.

Also read: Chennai municipal body buys 36 boats as 'precautionary measure' ahead of monsoon. See pics

The Regional Meteorological Centre, Chennai expects heavy rain spells on October 15 and 16 in the four districts and has issued an orange alert for the two days, warning of potential flooding and waterlogging.

Chennai city police have deployed around 300 specially trained armed reserve police personnel to low-lying areas in anticipation of heavy rainfall expected in several parts of Tamil Nadu over the next four days. A temporary control room has also been established to coordinate efforts with the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and fire service departments.

In addition, the 108 Emergency Medical Services (EMRI) has set up a second control center in Pudukottai. This new facility will enable EMRI, which is responsible for operating ambulances and providing medical emergency services in the state, to ensure continuous emergency medical response, particularly in the event of disruptions caused by the impending rain.