Is There a Flood Alert in TN's Theni as Vaigai Dam Nears Full Capacity?
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Synopsis
Chennai is on high alert as continuous rainfall raises the Vaigai Dam's water level to 69 feet. With a third-level flood alert issued, residents near the riverbanks are advised to stay vigilant and consider moving to safer areas. Authorities are actively monitoring the situation as heavy rains are expected to persist.
Key Takeaways
- Water level at Vaigai Dam rises to 69 feet.
- Third-level flood alert issued by Public Works Department.
- Residents near riverbanks advised to evacuate if necessary.
- Continuous monitoring by Water Resources Department.
- Disaster management teams prepared for emergencies.
Chennai, Oct 21 (NationPress) With relentless heavy rainfall impacting the Western Ghats due to the Northeast Monsoon, the water level at the Vaigai Dam in Tamil Nadu's Theni district has surged dramatically to 69 feet, leading the Public Works Department (PWD) to issue a third-level flood alert.
Authorities reported that the dam has been experiencing significant inflows from nearby catchment areas over the last three days as consistent rain continues in the Varushanad hills. To manage the increasing water levels, excess water is being released from the dam through controlled sluices.
Residents residing along the banks of the Vaigai River and in low-lying areas have been warned to stay alert and evacuate to safer zones if needed. According to PWD engineers, the dam’s maximum reservoir level is 71 feet, and current inflows are steadily rising due to the ongoing heavy rainfall in the upper catchment region.
The Vaigai, which begins in the Varushanad mountain range, gains significant flow from several small streams that traverse Vaalipparai, Thummakkundu, Murukkodai, Varushanad, Kadamalakkundu, Duraichamipuram, Kandamanur, Ammachiapuram, and Kunnur before it reaches the reservoir.
“Uninterrupted rainfall in the Western Ghats has triggered a spike in inflows, and our field engineers are vigilantly monitoring water levels around the clock,” stated a representative from the Water Resources Department.
“We have implemented necessary safety protocols to ensure the safety of individuals residing downstream,” he added.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has forecast widespread rainfall to persist across southern Tamil Nadu due to an active northeast monsoon system. Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, and Virudhunagar districts have experienced heavy downpours since Sunday, with hilly regions reporting intense rainfall that has caused water levels in rivers and reservoirs to rise.
Disaster management teams are on standby in the downstream areas of Madurai and Sivaganga to address any potential flood-related incidents.
The district administration has also directed the revenue and police departments to closely monitor the Vaigai River flow and make public announcements in at-risk areas.
With the monsoon expected to continue throughout the week, officials have urged the public to proceed with caution and avoid approaching riverbanks or overflowing canals.
Point of View
It's imperative to highlight the severity of the current situation in Theni. The ongoing rains pose a significant threat to residents, and timely information is crucial for safety. Our commitment remains to provide accurate updates and guidance to those affected.
NationPress
21/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the flood alert in Theni?
The flood alert in Theni is due to continuous heavy rainfall impacting the Western Ghats, which has caused the water level at the Vaigai Dam to rise sharply.
What is the current water level at the Vaigai Dam?
As of now, the water level at the Vaigai Dam is at 69 feet, nearing its full capacity of 71 feet.
What precautions should residents take?
Residents living near the Vaigai River and in low-lying areas are advised to stay alert and evacuate to safer locations if necessary.
What actions are authorities taking?
The Public Works Department has implemented safety protocols and is actively monitoring water levels, while disaster management teams are on standby for emergencies.
Will the heavy rainfall continue?
Yes, the Regional Meteorological Centre has forecasted that widespread rainfall will persist across southern Tamil Nadu due to an active northeast monsoon system.
