Most of Thoothukudi flooded as heavy rains lash southern districts

THOOTHUKUDI: Heavy rains lashed Thoothukudi district, recording 154 mm in Kayalpattinam, the highest in the region, on Thursday as the northeast monsoon commenced in the state.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Tenkasi districts due to a low-pressure system over the Comorin Sea. Fishermen were advised not to venture into the sea as winds were expected to reach up to 55 kmph. Schools were also closed across the district.

Thoothukudi recorded 42.8 mm of rainfall, Srivaikuntam 56.2 mm, Tiruchendur 146 mm, Kayalpattinam 154 mm, and Sattankulam 84 mm so far. Flooding was reported in SS Pillai Street, Gandhi Statue area, Antonyar Kovil Street, and several neighbourhoods.

Municipal officials used pumps and tankers to remove stag