Chennai is in for a wet and turbulent week as heavy rain continues to lash the city due to a low-pressure system brewing over the Southwest Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Chennai and several districts across Tamil Nadu, warning residents to brace for more rain, cloudy skies and possible thunderstorms over the next few days.
The persistent downpour has disrupted daily life across the city. Traffic remained heavily congested through Monday as commuters struggled through waterlogged stretches and slow-moving arterial roads. In one alarming incident, a school bus reportedly got stuck in a pothole during intense rainfall, prompting authorities to suspend school operations for student safety.
In its latest bulletin, the IMD said the weather disturbance remains active.
The department noted:
“The Low Pressure Area over the Southwest Bay of Bengal off the Sri Lanka coast now lies over the Southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Sri Lanka as of 0830 IST on November 17, 2025.”
It added that the associated upper-air cyclonic circulation up to 7.6 km above mean sea level persists, and the system is expected to drift west-northwest over the next 24 hours. Another fresh low-pressure area is likely to form over the Southeast Bay of Bengal around November 22, which may intensify further over the subsequent two days.
Chennai Weather Forecast (18–23 November)
18 Nov:
Partly cloudy skies with the possibility of moderate rain or thunderstorms. Cloud cover may vary with sudden showers in the afternoon or evening.
19 Nov:
Generally cloudy with light rain. Intermittent light showers expected, but overall conditions are likely to remain manageable.
20 Nov:
Cloudy skies with occasional light rain. Mild drizzle or brief passing showers are likely throughout the day.
21 Nov:
Cloudy and rainy, with heavy showers at intervals. Expect slower traffic and gloomy conditions.
22 Nov:
Cloudy skies and sustained heavy rainfall. On-and-off downpours will keep temperatures cool but may disrupt outdoor plans.
23 Nov:
Moderate rain accompanied by consistent cloudiness and mild humidity. Showers may appear intermittently through the day.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay updated through official IMD alerts, and take precautions amid the ongoing wet spell.
