Chennai, Dec 3 (NationPress) Intense rainfall is anticipated across the western regions of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts heavy downpours in the districts of Nilgiris, Erode, and Coimbatore.

This rainfall is attributed to the residual effects of Cyclone Ditwah, which has diminished from a cyclone to a deep depression, eventually evolving into a low-pressure system near the Tamil Nadu coastline.

Chennai, along with its adjacent districts—Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kanchipuram—has been witnessing consistent rain since early morning, following two consecutive days of significant precipitation caused by the system that emerged over the Bay of Bengal. Numerous main roads, residential areas, and low-lying localities around Chennai have reported waterlogging, disrupting daily life and hindering vehicle movement.

The IMD reported that the system weakened further off the coast on Tuesday morning. Nevertheless, extensive rainfall persists in northern Tamil Nadu. Intermittent showers have also been noted throughout the day in Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, and Kanchipuram.

Due to the anticipated heavy rainfall, district authorities have declared a holiday for all schools and colleges in Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Kanchipuram on Wednesday.

Officials indicated that this precautionary action was taken considering the flooded areas, waterlogged school zones, and the ongoing risk of moderate to heavy rainfall. In Chengalpattu, a holiday has been announced solely for schools, while colleges will remain open. Similar measures have been enacted in the Ranipet district, particularly in the taluks of Arakkonam and Nemili, where schools will also be closed.

Schools in Cuddalore, Kallakurichi, and Villupuram districts will also stay shut.

The weather department has issued warnings for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning in various areas of Puducherry, Karaikal, and other parts of Tamil Nadu.

Areas like Nilgiris, Erode, and Coimbatore may experience heavy rain in isolated spots, while districts such as Tiruppur, Theni, Dindigul, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari, Salem, and Namakkal are also forecasted to encounter heavy showers in certain locations.

Officials have advised the public, especially those residing in vulnerable and hilly areas, to exercise caution. Disaster management teams in the northern and western districts have been placed on high alert to address any emergencies related to the rain.

With the active northeast monsoon and the lingering weakened system along the coast, the IMD has urged the public to adhere to local weather advisories and refrain from unnecessary travel in rain-affected areas.