Chennai Wakes to Unexpected Deluge, Commuters Face Chaos

As of August 22, 2025, the city of Chennai has been hit by unexpected heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The downpour, which began earlier this morning, has taken the locals by surprise, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had initially forecast only moderate showers for the city over the next two days.

However, the reality on the ground has been quite different. Parts of Chennai, including Annanagar, Guindy, Kodambakkam, Madipakkam, Vadapalani, Ashok Pillar, and Koyambedu, have experienced intense thunderstorms and bright lightning. The heavy rainfall has led to widespread waterlogging, causing significant inconvenience for daily commuters.

Roads that were already affected by ongoing metro construction in certain areas have seen water quickly piling up, making travel even more difficult. Municipal Corporation workers have been deployed to clear the excess water from key roads, but the situation remains challenging.

Despite the IMD's initial forecast, the weather department has now issued an orange alert, predicting moderate rainfall in Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Cuddalore areas on August 22. The weather office expects the maximum temperature in Chennai and nearby areas to be around 35°C, while the minimum temperature may stay between 27°C and 28°C.