MADURAI/NILGIRIS: Southern Tamil Nadu experienced heavy rainfall over the weekend, with the Nilgiris district being particularly hard-hit. Incessant rains on Saturday night led to flooding in several low-lying areas, prompting the district administration to form special rescue and rehabilitation teams.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued sharp showers for the region. In addition to the Nilgiris, other western Tamil Nadu districts received moderate rainfall on Saturday night and Sunday. Southern districts such as Dindigul, Sivaganga, and Virudhunagar faced heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds. In Madurai, the weather turned dark and cloudy on Saturday, followed by a drizzle that escalated into a heavy downpour. Reports indicated that a few trees were uprooted in Sivaganga due to the strong winds.
A thunderstorm struck Kodaikanal in the Dindigul district on Sunday afternoon, lasting about an hour and significantly reducing the temperature. According to IMD, Kovilankulam and Aruppukottai in Virudhunagar, along with Andipatti in Madurai, received up to 50 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours leading up to 8:30 am on Sunday. Thiruchuzhi, Vembakottai, Kallikudi, and Sivaganga recorded 30 mm of rainfall, while several other places in Sivagangai, Dindigul, Tuticorin, and Virudhunagar received around 10 mm of rain. In response to the heavy rains, the Nilgiris district administration has set up 40 teams dedicated to rescue and relief operations. Authorities have also identified approximately 450 relief centres to accommodate people displaced from low-lying and flood-affected areas during the southwest monsoon.
The IMD predicts light to moderate rain with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 km/h in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal over the next few days. Additionally, squally weather with wind speeds of 35-45 km/h, gusting up to 55 km/h, is expected over the Gulf of Mannar, the Comorin area, and the adjoining southern Tamil Nadu coast. Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing into these sea areas during this period due to the adverse weather conditions. The rains are crucial for the region’s water supply and agriculture, yet they also bring the challenge of ensuring public safety and minimizing disruption. With proactive measures in place, authorities aim to mitigate the impact on affected communities and ensure a swift response to emergencies.
The recent rainfall highlights the importance of effective disaster management strategies, particularly in regions prone to extreme weather events. The collaborative efforts of local administrations, rescue teams, and the IMD are essential in safeguarding lives and properties during such occurrences.
