Weather warnings may help TN prepare for monsoon

Chennai: In an effort that could go some way in preparing the people for any imminent threat arising out of the monsoon rains, the State Revenue Department has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Centre for Coastal Research, to know in advance about the condition and intensity of rains.

 “This will help us to take precautionary measures as we would be in a position to know the intensity of rain 5 days ahead,” Revenue and Disaster Management Minister R. B. Udaiyakumar has said. 

Given the Kerala experience of flooding this year and Chennai’s own 2015 floods, sophisticated guidance in preparation might help. Warnings on the intensity of rainfall might help decide on steps to take in preparing for water release from the city’s reservoirs in case the northeast monsoon is as bounteous.

 A couple of days of pre-monsoon rain and the flooding of the city roads may have convinced the government that preparation is needed. 

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, the minister said the State government was fully prepared to tackle any emergency arising out of the northeast monsoon.  

Flood mitigation works are in full swing in Chennai, he said and added that the progress of work is being reviewed in 32 districts through video conferencing.

“About 5,000 officers have been drafted to review the complaints from the people and to take appropriate action,” Mr Udayakumar said.