Chennai Rains Cross 350 mm, Several Areas Flooded
Chennai experienced extremely heavy rainfall on Saturday, October 17, leaving several neighbourhoods inundated and disrupting normal life as the northeast monsoon intensified across Tamil Nadu. Northern parts of the city were particularly affected, with intense overnight showers causing widespread waterlogging and prompting civic authorities to strengthen flood prevention measures.
Chennai Heavy Rainfall Crosses 350 mm
Rainfall data for the 24-hour period ending October 18 showed that Parrys recorded 363.4 mm, followed by Kathivakkam at 344.4 mm. Meenambakkam received 285.8 mm, Chennai Central 274.5 mm, Tiruvottiyur 224.4 mm and Ennore 215.8 mm.
Six monitoring locations recorded extremely heavy rainfall, while 17 reported very heavy rain and another 18 registered heavy rainfall. Chennai’s average rainfall during the reporting period was 105.96 mm.
The exceptionally intense showers overwhelmed drainage systems in vulnerable areas, leaving several roads submerged and creating difficulties for motorists and residents.
Chennai Waterlogging Prompts Civic Response
The Greater Chennai Corporation intensified precautionary measures, including clearing stormwater drains, inspecting pumping facilities and deploying personnel to waterlogged locations.
More than 15,000 civic workers were deployed as authorities prepared for additional rainfall and possible flooding.
Low-lying neighbourhoods remained particularly vulnerable as repeated spells of rain increased pressure on drainage infrastructure.
IMD Forecasts More Rain Across Tamil Nadu
The India Meteorological Department forecast further heavy to very heavy rainfall across Chennai and neighbouring districts on Sunday, October 18.
Weather officials attributed the persistent rainfall to active northeast monsoon conditions and atmospheric circulation over Tamil Nadu and adjoining coastal areas.
Residents have been advised to monitor official weather alerts, exercise caution on flooded roads and avoid unnecessary travel through waterlogged locations.
