India: Northeastern monsoon prompts flooding in Chennai Nov. 6 /update 1

Event

Heavy downpours ongoing since November 2 have flooded the southern city of Chennai and its suburbs (Kanchipuram, Thiruvallur, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, and Tiruvarur), killing at least 12 people so far. A total of 56 cm (22 in) of rain was recorded in five days, which accounts to nearly 74 percent of what normally falls during the two-month long monsoon season. Schools will remain closed on Monday, November 6, in the city.

Rain stopped in Chennai (Tamil Nadu state) on Sunday but is forecast to resume in parts of Tamil Nadu - notably the Puducherry region - on Monday. Additional flooding is thus likely in the coming days.

Context

The northeast monsoon, which particularly affects the eastern half of India - e.g. coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu states - typically brings around 80 cm (30 in) rainfall within two months, with northeastern regions of the country receiving 70 percent of their annual rainfall between October and December.

Advice

Individuals are advised to monitor local weather forecasts, adhere to any advice or instructions issued by local authorities, and be prepared for transportation disruptions. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult. Finally, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, all items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and any foodstuffs discarded.