TN preps to avoid 2015-flood like situation as northeast monsoon intensifies

Tamil Nadu is bracing to face heavy northeast monsoon rain, which began on Wednesday and is anticipated to accentuate within the subsequent few days, particularly in districts of Chennai, Cuddalore and Thoothukudi on account of a cyclonic circulation over southwest Bay of Bengal near the Tamil Nadu coast, climate division officers stated.

The enhanced rainfall is anticipated in coastal and south Tamil Nadu from the second week of November till mid- December.

On Wednesday, ministers and bureaucrats reviewed preparedness for the rain to forestall repeat of December 2015 deluge. At the assembly, an official aware about the discussions stated that 4,133 locations have been recognized as flood-prone and 321 as severely affected. He additionally stated 4,714 reduction shelters have been made prepared throughout the state at faculties, marriage halls and group halls to accommodate affected folks.

The authorities has additionally spent Rs seven crore for flood mitigation of Adyar river, which together with Chembarambakkam lake was liable for December 2015 floods that battered Chennai and its neighbouring districts. Officials additionally stated that Greater Chennai Corporation began work in August by de-silting storm water drains (2,500 km drains have been constructed to date), connecting culverts and clearing encroachments alongside water our bodies.

Tamil Nadu depends on the northeast monsoon for its lakes to refill for water necessities. The state receives a median rainfall of 444 mm between October and December. Chennai’s common is 850mm throughout the identical interval. “Including today’s rainfall Tamil Nadu has received around 110 mm and Chennai has got 350 mm,” stated Pradeep John, impartial climate professional and blogger. Since the northeast monsoon arrived within the area final month, Chennai obtained the best single-day rainfall on October 29 “with 288mm of rainfall,” John stated. “The previous record was on November 3 with 296 mm.”

Early morning showers left a number of arterial roads in Chennai and Coimbatore water-logged inflicting inconvenience to commuters. The water finally drained since the remainder of the day remained dry and sunny. “Early morning there will be rainfall in the coastal areas. During evenings and nights convergence will shift towards the land in interior parts of Tamil Nadu,” John stated. Chennai is anticipated to get up to rain each morning for the following 4 days.

A 24×7 management room has been created on the Ripon buildings, the seat of Chennai’s civic physique, to absorb complaints from public and emergency numbers have been launched. Vehicles have been stationed to clear fallen timber together with a staff that can man the night time shift. Some 570 motorpumps have been positioned in low mendacity areas to empty water in all 15 zones of Chennai, 176 reduction camps are prepared with 44 medical groups. Community kitchens and Amma canteens will operate to offer meals for these affected.