Cyclone alert: schools closed in Puducherry amid heavy rain warnings

Authorities in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry have announced the closure of schools and colleges as a depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal intensifies into a potential cyclonic storm.

The weather system is expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that the depression will strengthen into a cyclonic storm within the next 12 hours, affecting Tamil Nadu and nearby coastal areas. Forecast models suggest the cyclone could make landfall near Chennai, but the exact location remains uncertain. It could impact areas between Puducherry and Chennai or even extend into Andhra Pradesh.

Intense rainfall is forecast for several districts, including Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, and Cuddalore. Chennai, Tiruvallur, Ranipet, and nearby regions are also likely to experience heavy rains on Thursday. The IMD has issued an Orange alert, signaling heavy to very heavy rainfall for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Ranipet on Friday and Saturday.

Coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal could face gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 65 kmph.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin conducted a review meeting to assess readiness, including the deployment of disaster response teams and round-the-clock emergency control centers.

Chief Minister of Puducherry, N Rangasamy, held an emergency meeting to coordinate efforts to address potential disruptions caused by heavy rainfall in Puducherry and Karaikal.

Several districts, including Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai, are bracing for significant rain.

This marks the fourth major weather system to form during the ongoing northeast monsoon season since mid-October. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and adhere to guidelines issued by local authorities.