Cyclone Alert: Chennai and Nearby Districts Brace for Heavy Rain from December 2 to 4

A cyclone anticipated to form in the Bay of Bengal is poised to bring substantial rainfall to Chennai and neighboring districts from December 2 to 4. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin visited Ripon Buildings to evaluate the Greater Chennai Corporation’s (GCC) preparedness, emphasizing improved coordination between departments to address grievances promptly. The 1913 helpline connections will be doubled from 10 to 20 in response to increased complaints about civic issues during the recent rains.

North Tamil Nadu, especially the coastal region, is expected to witness heavy downpours, with the cyclone likely approaching the north Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh coasts. The cyclone, potentially named Michaung, is forecasted to trigger widespread moderate-intensity rain across the state until December 5.

Overnight rain significantly reduced Chennai’s seasonal rain deficit, now at 8%, with Tamil Nadu’s deficit also decreasing to 6%. Shutter gates of Chembarambakkam and Red Hills reservoirs were opened to manage heavy inflow, and the India Meteorological Department issued an orange-coded warning, predicting very heavy rain in some districts, while Chennai and neighboring areas may experience intense rainfall of up to 20 cm on Sunday and Monday.