Dry September Forecast Does Not Rule Out Chennai Flooding

Weather experts expect September to be drier than usual in Chennai and much of India.

But this does not mean Chennai cannot flood.

A whole month may have little rain while one powerful storm drops a huge amount in a few hours.

That much water can overwhelm drains and flood low-lying areas.

Flooding can also stop transportation and disrupt important services.

The Greater Chennai Corporation is cleaning drains and preparing emergency systems.

Officials are also checking whether canals and waterways can carry extra water.

The city will be tested when the first major spell of northeast monsoon rain arrives.

A dry forecast should therefore bring preparation, not complacency.