A powerful rainstorm hit Chennai and nearby districts on Tuesday, causing extensive flooding, traffic jams, and disrupting essential services. The city’s infrastructure was overwhelmed by the heavy rainfall, leaving many residents stranded and struggling to navigate the waterlogged streets.
Rajinikanth’s Poes Garden Villa Flooded
One of the notable impacts of the storm was on the luxurious villa of superstar Rajinikanth in Poes Garden, a well-known landmark in Chennai. According to Deccan Herald, floodwaters breached the premises, leading to significant water accumulation. Social media is flooded with images and videos of the inundated area, showcasing the intensity of the storm.
The city’s drainage system failed to cope with the downpour, causing widespread waterlogging. Civic authorities have launched emergency operations to pump out water around Rajinikanth’s home. His staff is actively monitoring the situation to reduce potential damage. While the actor has yet to make a public statement, reports suggest he is taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of his household. Notably, this isn’t the first time Rajinikanth’s residence has faced flooding; a similar incident occurred in 2023 during Cyclone Michaung.
Transportation Hit Hard in Chennai
The rainstorm severely disrupted transportation across the city. The Southern Railway canceled four express trains, including the Chennai Central-Mysuru Kaveri Express, due to waterlogging on the tracks. Several other trains were either diverted or terminated before reaching Chennai Central. The weather also affected air travel, with several domestic flights canceled as passengers opted to stay indoors.
Weather Forecast: More Rains Expected
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast additional rainfall over the next two days. A low-pressure area in the region is expected to intensify into a depression, bringing more heavy rains. The IMD has issued a warning for Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and Chennai, predicting “heavy to very heavy rain with extremely heavy rain in isolated places” in these districts.