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The relentless downpour in Tamil Nadu has prompted the state government to declare a holiday for all schools, colleges, private institutions, banks, and financial institutions in the severely affected districts of Kanyakumari, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli, and Thoothukudi. The incessant rainfall, continuing through Sunday night, has led to severe waterlogging, disrupting normal life in these regions.
Rescue Operations Intensify as Waters Rise
Due to the heavy rainfall, approximately 40 rivers and lakes in the Kovilpatti area have reached their full capacity, causing concern among residents. Rajesh, District Development Officer, Thoothukudi district, assured that authorities are vigilantly monitoring the situation and are prepared to address any breaches in lakes. The damage to two lakes has already been repaired, with continuous monitoring in place.
Government Takes Swift Action
Tamil Nadu Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management, KKSSR Ramachandran, announced the appointment of ministers and two IAS officers specifically for the distressed districts. Monitoring relief efforts and precautionary measures, the government has deployed 250 State Disaster Response Forces (SDRF) and the National Disaster Response Force in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Tuticorin, and Tenkasi. Additional SDRF members are expected to arrive in Tenkasi for further assistance.
Evacuation Camps Set Up for Affected Residents
In response to the challenging situation, nineteen camps have been established in Tirunelveli, four in Kanyakumari, two in Thoothukudi, and one in Tenkasi to accommodate affected residents. The Thachanallur relief camp in Tirunelveli is providing essential items and food to those impacted by floods and waterlogging.
Ongoing Heavy Rain Alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for southern Tamil Nadu, particularly in Tirunelveli, Tuticorin, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari districts. This alert, valid until December 19, 2023, warns of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls at isolated places over these districts. The heavy rain is attributed to a low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal, expected to intensify into a depression within the next 24 hours.
Widespread Impact and Rescue Efforts
The ongoing heavy rainfall has already inflicted widespread consequences, including floods, landslides, building collapses, power outages, and disruptions in transport and communication services. To counter these challenges, the state government has deployed rescue and relief teams, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), to assist affected individuals and restore essential services.
Coastal Areas on Alert
The IMD has also cautioned fishermen against venturing into the sea along and off the Tamil Nadu coast, as rough to very rough sea conditions are anticipated. Additionally, Tuticorin and Tenkasi districts are reporting heavy rains, with the IMD predicting further downpour in specific districts on December 18 and 19.
Forecast and Caution for the Coming Days
According to the weather office, heavy rain is anticipated in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, and Pudukottai districts on December 18. Similar weather conditions are expected to prevail over Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, and Ramanathapuram on December 19. Thunderstorms and lightning are predicted in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal on the same day. The Met department has also issued a warning of cyclonic winds over the coastal areas of Tamil Nadu and the Gulf of Mannar.
