CHENNAI, India — Wednesday saw the closure of schools, colleges, and government institutions in certain areas of southern India due to intense monsoon downpours resulting in considerable flooding.

Major cities affected include Chennai and Bengaluru, both prominent centers for industry and information technology in the nation. The turbulence has been characterized by power outages and flight cancellations, leaving many residents preparing for additional rainfall anticipated over the next two days.

While the monsoon season typically runs from June to September and has diminished in northern India, the onset of the northeast monsoon has led to substantial rainfalls in coastal regions such as Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of southern Karnataka. Recent weather disturbances have already resulted in at least 33 fatalities attributed to floods and rains last month.

Residents of Chennai’s high-security Poes Garden neighborhood, home to many political figures, business leaders, and celebrities, experienced significant flooding overnight. Broadcast footage depicted individuals navigating through congested streets submerged in knee-deep water.

The India Meteorological Department has forecasted winds reaching speeds of 60 kph (37 mph) to impact the southern region until Thursday.

In response to the adverse weather, the Tamil Nadu state government has mobilized over 200 boats and various disaster response teams. Consequently, numerous educational institutions and government offices remain closed.

South Asia frequently experiences disasters such as landslides and flooding. Experts in climate science and meteorology have increasingly pointed to climate change as a contributing factor to the intensified rainfall observed in recent years.