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Rains LIVE Updates: Flash flood risk alert for coastal Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu for next 24 hours

The Southern states of India are grappling with heavy to very heavy rainfall, bringing disruptions to daily life and warnings of potential flooding in various regions. As cyclonic storms form in the Bay of Bengal, the meteorological departments are issuing alerts for severe weather conditions, urging preparedness and caution.

#### Torrential Rain Forecast for South Coast and Rayalaseema

The Andhra Pradesh Disaster Management Authority has warned that **"heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in several places in the South Coast and Rayalaseema, with extremely heavy rainfall likely in some areas."** Ronanki Kurmanath, an official from the Meteorological Department, said that coastal regions are also likely to experience wind speeds of 40-60 km/h. These conditions are exacerbated by the depression in the Bay of Bengal, which is expected to intensify further, bringing more instability to the region.

### Floodwater Recedes in Greater Chennai Corporation Areas

Following intense rains on October 15, 2024, Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Udhayanidhi Stalin, announced that **floodwater has completely receded in areas under the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC)**. His statement provided some relief to residents who had been concerned about prolonged flooding in the region.

The state government swiftly initiated relief measures, and as part of these efforts, **food will be provided free of cost at Amma Canteens on October 16 and 17**. These community canteens have long been a pillar of support for vulnerable populations, offering affordable meals in times of crisis.

#### Train Services Disrupted Due to Waterlogging

The South Western Railway (SWR) has cancelled multiple train services due to waterlogging on the tracks, further adding to the disruption in Tamil Nadu. **“The decision was taken due to waterlogging in the up-fast line over Bridge No. 114 between Basin Bridge Junction (Chennai) and Veysarpadi stations,”** an SWR official stated. 

As a result, **train services such as the Mysuru-KSR Bengaluru Malgudi Express and the Mysuru-Dr. MGR Chennai-Central Kaveri Express have been cancelled**. The authorities are working to restore normalcy as soon as the water recedes, but for now, the public is urged to remain patient and avoid non-essential travel.

### Andhra Pradesh on High Alert for Flash Floods

In Andhra Pradesh, **Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to remain on high alert**, particularly in Nellore and Tirupati districts, where rainfall has already exceeded 20 centimetres in some areas. With the depression in the Bay of Bengal intensifying, there is an increased likelihood of flash floods.

The Chief Minister is staying closely updated on the situation and has instructed the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) to monitor the rainfall levels and report back regularly. CM Naidu's proactive approach includes deploying disaster management teams to the affected areas and ensuring swift relief operations if flash floods occur.

### Karnataka Prepares for Continued Rainfall

In Karnataka, **Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has advised residents to take necessary precautions amid the ongoing heavy rainfall**. The state's capital, Bengaluru, has experienced incessant downpours, leading to waterlogging in several parts of the city. 

However, Deputy CM Shivakumar reassured the public, stating that the government is fully prepared to **"manage the situation"**. He emphasised the government's capability to address the challenges brought by the rain, saying they have the **"strength" to set right the issues** that have emerged. An emergency review meeting with key departments, including the police, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), and the fire department, was scheduled for later that evening to assess the situation and ensure coordinated action.

### Cyclonic Storm Expected to Make Landfall on October 17

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that a **cyclonic storm is likely to make landfall on October 17**, further intensifying the already challenging weather conditions in the Southern states. 

This storm is expected to cause widespread heavy rain, thunderstorms, and high-speed winds across coastal regions, affecting life and infrastructure. Residents in vulnerable areas have been urged to stay indoors and avoid any unnecessary travel.

### Rain Affects First India-New Zealand Test Match

The ongoing heavy rainfall has also impacted the **first Test match between India and New Zealand**, with the start of the game delayed due to wet ground conditions. Fans who had been eagerly anticipating the match will need to wait for further updates on the weather situation.

### Tirumala Pilgrimage Disrupted by Heavy Rain Forecast

In response to the weather forecast, **the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) ordered the closure of the Srivari Mettu footpath route from October 17**. This precautionary measure aims to safeguard pilgrims who visit Tirumala during the religious season, as the heavy rains have made the path unsafe for travel.

TTD officials also decided to **temporarily close the road leading to the Papavinasanam theertham**, another popular pilgrimage spot. The safety of the pilgrims remains the utmost priority, and further decisions will be made based on updated weather conditions from the IMD.

### Relief Centres Set Up in Tiruppur for Displaced People

In the Tiruppur district, the local administration has taken proactive measures to prepare for potential flooding. **Fifty-two relief centres have been established** to accommodate residents who may be displaced due to the release of excess water from the Amaravathy and Thirumoorthy dams.

The district officials are closely monitoring the rainfall and dam water levels, ensuring that all necessary steps are in place to minimise the impact on affected communities. Plans to address waterlogging, power outages, and food and drinking water supply have been implemented, with local bodies instructed to maintain vigilance.

### Tiruchi Prepares for the North-east Monsoon

In Tiruchi, efforts are underway to **desilt major storm-water drains and drainage channels** to prevent flooding during the upcoming North-east monsoon season. The Tiruchi Corporation has allocated ₹4.12 crore for the desilting work, which is expected to be completed by the end of October. 

The project includes clearing major channels in Cholarajapuram, Rajarajan Nagar, and Major Saravanan Road, with the aim of mitigating the risk of waterlogging in flood-prone areas. The comprehensive desilting initiative will cover approximately 132 km of major drains and 125 km of channels, ensuring the city is better equipped to handle the monsoon rains.

### Conclusion

As Southern India braces for more heavy rainfall, authorities across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact of the weather on daily life. The preparedness of local administrations, the timely alerts from meteorological departments, and the proactive measures being taken at both state and district levels provide some reassurance to residents amid this challenging period of inclement weather.