Cyclone Montha Triggers Orange Alert in Northern Tamil Nadu; Chennai on High Rainfall Watch

Chennai | October 27, 2025 The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued an orange alert for four northern coastal districts of Tamil Nadu—Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Ranipet—as Cyclone Montha continues to intensify over the Bay of Bengal. The alert warns of heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds expected to affect these regions over the next 48 hours. According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, the cyclonic system originated from a deep depression in the southeast Bay of Bengal and is likely to move northwestward, gathering strength as it approaches the Tamil Nadu and south Andhra coasts. The department has cautioned that weather conditions are expected to deteriorate steadily across northern coastal Tamil Nadu, with the Chennai metropolitan region likely to experience significant rainfall activity. “An orange alert has been issued for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Ranipet districts, indicating the potential for very heavy rainfall at isolated locations,” the IMD said. For Tuesday, the forecast includes an orange alert for Tiruvallur and a yellow alert for Ranipet, Chennai, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpattu districts, signalling continued rainfall activity. Under the cyclone’s influence, moderate to heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is expected in several parts of Chennai and its suburbs, with short, intense downpours possible in some areas. The IMD warned fishermen to refrain from venturing into the sea, citing rough conditions and gusty winds along the Tamil Nadu and south Andhra Pradesh coastlines. The weather office also predicted that the sky over Chennai and nearby districts would remain overcast, with intermittent spells of rainfall throughout the day. Temperatures are expected to remain moderate, with the maximum hovering around 31°C and the minimum close to 25°C. In anticipation of heavy rain, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has activated emergency response teams and deployed motor pumps in flood-prone areas. The Public Works Department (PWD) has been directed to monitor water discharge levels from major reservoirs, including Chembarambakkam, Red Hills, and Poondi, to prevent flooding in residential areas. City officials have assured that stormwater drains are being cleared to prevent water stagnation, while additional manpower and vehicles have been stationed across key zones to respond swiftly to emergencies. With the northeast monsoon gaining intensity, authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, especially during peak rainfall hours, and to promptly report waterlogging incidents through designated helpline numbers. Meanwhile, disaster management teams have been placed on high alert across coastal districts, and educational institutions in low-lying areas may remain closed if the rainfall persists. The state government has also advised fishermen to secure their boats along the coast and suspend deep-sea fishing activities until further notice. As Cyclone Montha continues to strengthen, Chennai and nearby districts brace for another round of intense monsoon showers, testing the city’s preparedness for heavy rainfall and urban flooding. Chennai on High Alert as Cyclone Montha Approaches As Cyclone Montha brews over the Bay of Bengal, Chennai and nearby districts brace for heavy rainfall and strong winds. The IMD has issued an orange alert for Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, and Ranipet, warning of thunderstorms and possible flooding. City authorities are deploying pumps, clearing drains, and preparing for emergency response as the northeast monsoon gains strength. Residents are urged to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and report waterlogging issues. With the storm intensifying, Tamil Nadu’s coastal belt stands on alert, ready to weather nature’s next challenge.