The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared an orange alert for Chennai and surrounding northern districts of Tamil Nadu — including Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram and Ranipet — holding potential for heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds. The alert comes in the wake of the deep depression evolving into Cyclonic Storm ‘Montha’ over the Bay of Bengal and heading towards the east coast. In Chennai city, authorities report persistent rainfall, surface-water accumulation in low-lying pockets, and ongoing vigilance by civic bodies to manage drainage and pump-outs. Chief Minister M. K. Stalin reviewed preparedness measures including monitoring the Adyar river, directing swift action on public complaints and ensuring essential services continue without disruption. Despite the alert, school holiday has not been declared for 27 October yet; district administrations are set to monitor conditions and may announce closures if the situation worsens. Residents are being advised to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy downpours, steer clear of flooded zones and keep track of official weather updates and alerts. Local civic agencies are also on standby with relief and evacuation plans.With farm fields in the Cauvery delta already water-logged, the heavy rain spell adds pressure on agriculture and rural livelihoods. Prompt action is critical to avoid crop damage and loss of income.The situation underscores how the northeast monsoon and cyclonic disturbances continue to test Tamil Nadu’s drainage infrastructure and disaster-management systems as festival season travel and public mobility remain high.