CHENNAI, Jan 24: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘Yellow Alert’ for Chennai and six other districts in Tamil Nadu, warning of isolated heavy rainfall on Saturday. The alert covers Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, and Cuddalore.
According to the IMD, the rainfall is being triggered by a lower atmospheric circulation over southern India. Coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal are expected to see light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning at several locations, while interior areas may experience similar conditions at isolated spots.
The weather department has urged residents to remain cautious, particularly in low-lying and waterlogged areas.
A marine warning has also been issued for fishermen, with strong winds of up to 60 kmph expected along the Tamil Nadu coast, the Gulf of Mannar, and the Comorin Sea on Saturday and Sunday. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea during this period.
The IMD noted that a deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal weakened into a depression early Saturday and crossed north Sri Lanka as a low-pressure area by afternoon. While the system is expected to dissipate gradually, its residual effects are likely to influence rainfall across parts of Tamil Nadu over the weekend.
Authorities have advised the public to follow official weather updates and adhere to safety advisories issued by local administrations and disaster management agencies.