Chennai Roads Flooded As Heavy Rains Hit Sixteen Districts
Chennai is witnessing intense rainfall as a fresh weather system impacts Tamil Nadu, prompting officials to issue warnings for commuters. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) forecasts that 16 districts, including Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Theni, Tiruppur, Erode, Dharmapuri, Salem, and Madurai, will experience heavy showers until October 19.
Urban areas of Chennai are particularly vulnerable, with major roads facing waterlogging and potential disruption to daily travel.Authorities have highlighted Old Mahabalipuram Road (OMR), 100 Feet Road (Koyambedu–Thirumangalam), GST Road near the airport, Jamalia Subway in Perambur, and the Koyambedu–Thirumangalam stretch as high-risk zones for commuters. Officials emphasise careful route planning, especially for essential services and office-goers, to prevent traffic snarls during peak hours.
The IMD has predicted moderate to heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning for the next three days, gradually tapering to light showers by October 19. The hilly regions of western Tamil Nadu are expected to experience some of the highest rainfall totals, increasing the risk of localized flooding and landslides.City planners and traffic authorities are coordinating to manage waterlogged stretches, deploying drainage equipment, and monitoring vulnerable zones in real-time. Emergency response teams have been put on standby to support residents in affected areas, particularly in low-lying neighbourhoods prone to inundation.
Meteorological officials emphasise that the ongoing rains form part of the post-monsoon weather system affecting both the Western Ghats and interior districts. Residents are advised to avoid non-essential travel, stay updated with local alerts, and use alternate routes wherever possible to ensure safety.Urban flood management experts note that recurrent waterlogging along Chennai’s arterial roads highlights the urgent need for climate-resilient infrastructure. Enhanced drainage, sustainable water management, and community awareness are key to mitigating impacts from such extreme weather events.While authorities continue monitoring rainfall levels, public cooperation remains crucial in preventing accidents and ensuring smooth traffic flow during this period. The rains, though disruptive, are expected to provide relief to water reservoirs but also pose challenges for urban mobility in the city.
