Heavy Rain Warning Across 21 Districts; Fishermen Advised to Stay Ashore

Chennai, Tamil Nadu — September 18, 2025 The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather warning for Tamil Nadu, forecasting widespread heavy rainfall over 21 districts, including critical urban and coastal areas such as Chennai, Kanchipuram, and Vellore, as of September 18, 2025. Fishermen have been strongly advised to stay ashore due to rough sea conditions expected along the coast. This warning comes amid heightened atmospheric circulation patterns over the Bay of Bengal and the adjoining sea regions. Coastal and near-coastal districts are particularly vulnerable. The IMD notes that strong onshore winds combined with moisture-laden air are contributing to the heavy rainfall. Several low-lying areas are already experiencing inundation and warnings have come out for possible flooding in vulnerable zones. Among the districts under alert are Chennai, Kanchipuram, Vellore, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, and other neighboring ones. The advisory also includes sea conditions—strong winds and high waves—making navigation unsafe. Fishermen have been told not to venture into the sea until the conditions improve. Meanwhile, rainfall accumulation in the last 24 hours shows significant activity: districts such as Thiruvallur and Vellore have seen heavy showers; other districts like Tiruppur and Coimbatore (neighboring zones) are being watched. The IMD expects the intense spell to continue for several days, with some districts likely to have moderate to heavy rain at intervals. In response, local administrations are gearing up. Municipal bodies in Chennai are issuing advisories for flood-prone areas; storm water drains are being inspected and cleared. Disaster management departments are on alert. Schools and colleges in affected zones may consider rescheduling or taking precautionary steps. There are also warnings of potential health hazards: standing water could lead to mosquito breeding, increasing risk of vector-borne diseases. Additionally, traffic disruption is expected; roads in low-lying regions could be waterlogged, affecting commuter movement particularly during peak hours. Residents in affected areas are being urged to be cautious, avoid travel during intense rain spells, and follow instructions from local authorities. The coastal advisory particularly impacts fishermen: with seas rough, operations are risky. Port authorities and coastal police are also keeping watch; beaches may be affected. Fisher folk communities are being asked to ensure their boats are secured and avoid going out to sea until warnings are lifted. This rainfall alert is seen as part of the broader pattern of monsoon behaviour this year—erratic, with episodes of heavy downpours and localized flooding. Climate experts note that southern India has seen intensified rain events lately, possibly linked to changing monsoon dynamics. For Tamil Nadu, the challenge is to manage infrastructure and civic readiness, especially drainage, road maintenance, and early warning systems.