CHENNAI/NEW DELHI, 19 October 2025 — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings regarding the potential intensification of two simultaneous low-pressure weather systems developing over the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, a configuration that could significantly influence rainfall activity across southern India.
The severe weather has already caused immediate disruption, resulting in the cancellation of train services on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway due to heavy rains and multiple landslides reported on Sunday (October 19).
IMD Tracks Twin Threat
The complex weather pattern is setting the tone for an active phase of the northeast monsoon, which commenced earlier this week across Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
According to the latest IMD bulletins, twin developments are currently under observation:
Landslides Halt Rail Travel
The relentless downpours have already caused substantial damage and travel halts. Train services on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway were cancelled on Sunday (October 19, 2025).
Southern Railway’s Salem Division reported multiple "earth slips" along the route between Kallar and Coonoor. These slips involved boulders, mud, and fallen trees obstructing the tracks. Services affected by the cancellations included Train No. 56136 Mettupalayam - Udagamandalam, Train No. 56137 Udagamandalam - Mettupalayam, and Train No. 06171 Mettupalayam - Udagamandalam Special Train.
Rainfall and Advisories
The weather office forecasted widespread light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and lightning over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal.
Heavy rainfall was specifically expected at isolated places in numerous districts, including The Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Theni, Dindigul, Erode, Salem, Namakkal, and Karur. Heavy rainfall in Thoothukudi resulted in waterlogging across parts of the district, prompting local authorities to declare a holiday for schools due to the severe conditions.
Advisories to Mariners and Residents:
Due to the complex and intensifying systems, extensive warnings have been issued: