The Tamil Nadu government has declared a rain holiday for all educational institutions and government offices (excluding essential services) in Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpattu districts on October 16, 2024. This extension comes in light of the ongoing heavy rains caused by the intensification of the low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, which has now developed into a well-marked low-pressure system and is likely to turn into a depression.
The Northeast monsoon has officially commenced, and widespread rainfall is expected to continue in various parts of the state. In anticipation of further heavy downpours, Chief Minister MK Stalin has ordered the pre-deployment of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Tamil Nadu Disaster Response Force (TNDRF) in vulnerable areas to ensure timely assistance and disaster management efforts.
The government has urged citizens to remain cautious and stay indoors unless necessary, as the weather conditions could worsen. The focus remains on safeguarding lives and minimizing the impact of floods and waterlogging in the affected regions.