Chennai, October 21:
The deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify further, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, said on Tuesday. Speaking to reporters at Nungambakkam, Amudha, Regional Head of the Meteorological Centre, stated that the system, currently about 400 kilometres off the Chennai coast, may strengthen into a depression by tomorrow, after which its potential development into a cyclone will be clearer.
Fishermen who have ventured into the sea have been advised to return immediately, as the sea is expected to turn rough with strong winds in the coming days. The RMC has issued a Red Alert for eight districts of Tamil Nadu, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall, and an Orange Alert for ten districts warning of very heavy showers.
District administrations have been directed to remain on high alert and activate disaster management protocols, particularly in coastal and low-lying regions vulnerable to flooding and waterlogging.
Amudha noted that Tamil Nadu has already received 59 per cent excess rainfall this October compared to the seasonal average. The northeast monsoon, which commenced earlier this month, has brought widespread rain across several districts, replenishing reservoirs but also causing localized flooding in urban areas.
“The depression’s movement is being closely monitored. Once it intensifies further, we will issue a clearer forecast on whether it may develop into a cyclonic storm,” Amudha said, urging residents to remain alert and follow official weather updates.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain and to heed safety instructions issued by local authorities. Disaster management teams across Tamil Nadu have been placed on standby with rescue boats, pumps, and emergency response units to minimize the potential impact of the approaching weather system.
