Heavy rainfall from Thursday evening through the night caused severe flooding at the government transport corporation's bus depot in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu, rendering the premises pond-like and disrupting bus operations.
The depot’s fuel-filling section and vehicle maintenance area were submerged, hampering refuelling and repair work. Several buses operating on rural routes were stranded due to mechanical issues, affecting services and causing delays.
Transport corporation employees noted that the depot is situated in a low-lying area prone to waterlogging during heavy rains. They have appealed to the district administration to implement a permanent solution to prevent recurring flooding and ensure uninterrupted bus services.
In the Western Ghats near Vathirairuppu, the Forest Department has banned devotees from trekking to the Sathuragiri Sundara Mahalingam Temple following heavy rainfall. The temple, normally open for devotees between October 23 and 26 to observe Pradosham and the full moon day in the Tamil month of Aippasi, is currently inaccessible. The department cited significantly increased water flow in streams along the trekking route as a safety concern, leading to the prohibition of access on Thursday, the day of Pradosham.
Ranipet district has experienced heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds since early Thursday morning, with overcast skies covering the region. The sudden downpour disrupted travel plans for school and college students as well as the general public commuting to work. Two-wheeler riders and roadside vendors also faced difficulties. Several roads were flooded, complicating commuting.
Continuous rainfall has brought cooler temperatures to Ranipet district and increased water levels in local water bodies, encouraging optimism among farmers and residents about improved water availability.
Perambalur district has encountered intermittent moderate rainfall since early Thursday, providing relief from several days of intense heat where temperatures surpassed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Areas affected by the rain include urban and suburban regions such as Kavalpālaiyam, Sencheri, Kurumbalur, Palayam, Valikandapuram, Koneripalayam, and Esanai. The rainfall has been welcomed by residents and farmers alike, with cool winds also contributing to more comfortable conditions.