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Chennai, Oct 23 (IANS) A deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified and is expected to move towards northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and southern Andhra Pradesh coasts within the next 24 hours, the Regional Meteorological Center (RMC) in Chennai said on Thursday.
According to the RMC, the system, which initially developed as a low pressure area, strengthened into a depression and later a deep depression.
Although it was initially predicted to intensify further into a cyclone, its proximity to land disrupted its structure and prevented it from intensifying further. As the system approached the coast, the associated rainfall pattern also changed.
Widespread rainfall with thunder and lightning is likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal regions in the coming days.
The RMC has predicted moderate to heavy rainfall in some areas and has issued a special alert for five districts – Chennai, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram and Ranipet, where heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places on Thursday.
Meteorologists said that after landfall, the deep depression may move inland, weaken slightly and later flow back into the sea around October 26 (Sunday). If this happens, the system could re-intensify carrying water, leading to another round of rain early next week.
By Thursday morning, Chennai and its suburbs were already witnessing persistent and at times heavy rainfall.
The Northeast Monsoon, which started on October 16, has been active over the northern coastal districts for several days now.
Due to the possibility of heavy rain, the Tamil Nadu government has intensified preparations. The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has deployed over 24,000 personnel for relief and rescue operations, set up 215 relief camps and opened 106 community kitchens. Control rooms and helplines have been activated to respond to public complaints and coordinate flood relief efforts.
The water resources department has also stepped up surveillance on major reservoirs like Chembarambakkam and Poondi, monitoring flows and controlling surplus water drainage to prevent floods.
Police and fire services departments are on high alert, with rescue teams deployed at sensitive locations.
Officials urged residents of low-lying and coastal areas to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel and follow advisories as the system continues to cause widespread rainfall across Tamil Nadu.
–IANS
AL/DPB