Wednesday, November 23 2005 19:02 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Chennai: Heavy rains continued to batter various parts of Tamil Nadu since last night (Nov 23, 2005) under the influence of a well-marked low pressure area over the Gulf of Mannar, leading to flood warning being issued in some districts of the state as many rivers and lakes were filling, besides closure of schools and colleges.

The weather office said widespread rains, accompanied by strong winds, are likely over most parts of the state, during the next 24-hours beginning at 8.30 am today.

Official sources said seventy persons have died in rain-related incidents since November one.

In the metropolis, low lying areas have been flooded following the rains. In the suburbs, Chembarabakkam reservoir has filled up and water is being released at the rate of 1500 cusecs, official sources told sources.

A Tiruchirapalli report said flood alert has been issued in Karur and Tiruchirapalli districts, as 96,000 cusecs of surplus water was released from the Amaravathi dam today.

People living along the river banks in Karur have been asked to move to safer places. Schools in Karur town were closed for the day, Karur District Collector A Karthik said.

Tiruchirappalli District Collector K.Nandhakishore said arrangements have been made for flood relief operations and distribution of food to the affected. Schools in Tiruchi and Pudukottai districts remained closed today.