Adequate measures in place to handle any emergency: Minister

Speaking to reporters after performing bhoomi pooja for road projects in Tirumangalam in Madurai, to be taken up at a cost of Rs 7 crore, Udhayakumar said district administrations have already convened preparedness meetings.

Stating that officials have been deployed on ground, the minister said: "Safety measures have been enhanced in coastal districts. The officials have been briefed about their responsibilities to tackle any crisis."

Coastal districts, including Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, Pudukkottai, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Thoothukudi and Kanniyakumari, have been placed on alert with fishermen being asked to return to the shore. "Adequate number of relief shelters have been opened. Although rain is predicted in the coming days, there is no need for panic over the red alert issued by the Met Department," Udhayakumar said.

"A total of 35,000 personnel, including those from the National, State Disaster Response Forces and Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services personnel are on alert," the Minister said.

Meanwhile, Thoothukudi Collector Sandeep Nanduri has said fishing has been restricted since Sunday due to the weather warning and those at sea were asked to return at the earliest.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Nanduri said rain was predicted in 13 districts of North Tamil Nadu and a few in southern region.

"As many as 36 locations have been identified as sensitive in the district. Inter-departmental teams have been formed to monitor the situation and render assistance, if required,"he added.