Due to heavy Northeast Monsoon rains since October 1, Tamil Nadu’s reservoirs are nearing full capacity. However, the Meteorological Department estimates continued rain.
The Meteorological Department has predicted continued heavy rain along coastal districts, from Chennai to Nagapattinam, over the next few days. This could further increase water levels in reservoirs across the state.
As of Tuesday, Tamil Nadu’s reservoirs were just 12% short of their total capacity of 224.297 thousand million cubic feet (TMC). The Tamil Nadu Water Resources Department (WRD) confirmed that 12 reservoirs, including three in Coimbatore, seven in Madurai, and two in Chennai, have already reached full capacity.
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Additionally, 18 reservoirs are over 90% full, while another 23 hold between 70% and 80% of their capacity. The Stanley Reservoir at Mettur, the state’s largest, is at 97.51% capacity, holding 91.146 TMC out of a total of 93.470 TMC.
Cyclone Fengal brought unprecedented rainfall to northern districts, rapidly filling tanks and water bodies. For instance, 507 out of 697 tanks in Tiruvannamalai are now full. Similar trends were reported in Tiruvallur, Kallakurichi, and Chengalpattu.
However, the cyclone also caused severe damage. In Villupuram and other northern districts, floods breached several tanks, forcing water releases. WRD officials have since carried out temporary repairs to capture more rainfall during the ongoing monsoon.
Statewide water storage currently stands at 195.455 TMC, with just 24.824 TMC needed for full capacity. The recent downpours raised storage levels from 76.46% to 87.14%.
The rains have boosted reservoirs across districts like Tenkasi, Theni, and Trichy, but authorities remain vigilant as forecasts suggest more rain could impact already swollen water bodies.