The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe rainfall alert for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, and Lakshadweep, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall between October 22 and 26. This warning has sparked concern among political leaders, with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urging party members to extend aid to affected regions.
IMD Issues Alerts for Southern India
The IMD forecasted intense rainfall based on a low-pressure area over the Comorin region and adjoining parts of southern Tamil Nadu and Kerala. This meteorological condition is expected to cause heavy downpours in several districts until October 26, with Kerala and Lakshadweep also experiencing significant precipitation during this period.
Specifically, the forecast predicts heavy rain in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal from October 22 to 26, while Kerala is expected to see heavy rainfall from October 22 to 25. Lakshadweep will be affected from October 22 to 24. The monsoon’s northeast phase remains active, resulting in continuous rain across many areas.
Rahul Gandhi Appeals for Relief Efforts
Expressing his concern in the Lok Sabha and on social media platform X, Rahul Gandhi conveyed his sympathies to those impacted by the heavy rains in Tamil Nadu. He urged Congress leaders and workers to collaborate with local administrations to provide relief, especially focusing on the elderly and the most vulnerable.
In his statement, Gandhi emphasized the importance of reaching out to affected families to assist with rescue and recovery efforts. He reiterated solidarity with Tamil Nadu’s residents, urging them to stay safe amid the adverse weather conditions.
As part of the response, Gandhi’s call to action aims to strengthen grassroots relief activities across affected districts, emphasizing coordination with authorities to address immediate needs.
Meanwhile, the IMD also highlighted the possible development of a new low-pressure system in the southeastern Bay of Bengal. It could potentially evolve into a cyclonic storm but is currently not expected to directly impact Tamil Nadu. Further updates on this system will be provided as the situation develops.
Recent rainfall data shows areas like MGR Nagar in Chennai recorded exceptionally heavy rain totaling 15.4 centimeters within 24 hours. At least three districts experienced very heavy rainfall, while 13 districts witnessed heavy showers in the same time frame.
The IMD has forecasted continued heavy rainfall in southern and western districts including Tirunelveli, Tuticorin, Kanyakumari, Tenkasi, and Madurai. Northern districts such as Coimbatore, Nilgiris, and Karur are also expected to experience significant rainfall, often accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds.
The comprehensive warnings issued by the IMD advise residents and authorities in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to prepare for continued difficult weather through October 26, as the state deals with the sustained impact of the northeast monsoon’s active phase.
