Vaigai dam water level rises sharply, First Stage flood alert issued in Five districts

October 19, 2025

Chennai: Authorities have sounded a first-stage flood alert for residents living near the Vaigai River in Theni, Madurai, Dindigul, Sivaganga, and Ramanathapuram districts. The warning follows a sharp rise in the Vaigai dam’s water level due to persistent heavy rainfall over recent days.

Water Level Surges Rapidly

Official data indicates that the Vaigai dam reached 66 feet on Saturday evening, a five-foot increase within just 24 hours. The dramatic rise is attributed to heavy inflows from the Vaigai, Suruli, and Kottakudi rivers, all swollen by torrential rains in Theni and nearby hill regions.

Inflow Multiplies Tenfold in Hours

Officials reported a surge in inflow from 2,268 cusecs at 6 a.m. to nearly 24,000 cusecs by 11 a.m. on Sunday, marking a tenfold increase in just five hours. This prompted immediate precautionary measures for downstream areas.

Evacuation Preparations Underway

The Public Works Department (PWD) and district administrations have begun alerting residents in low-lying and riverbank areas to remain vigilant and prepare for possible evacuations if water release becomes necessary.

Alert Thresholds Defined

Authorities clarified the alert stages:

• Second-stage alert: Triggered at 68.5 feet
• Final alert: Issued at 69 feet, when excess water will be discharged into the Vaigai River to prevent overflow

Relief for Farmers Amid Rising Concerns

While the rising water level has caused anxiety among downstream communities, it has also brought relief to farmers in the five districts. With the dam nearing full capacity early in the northeast monsoon season, irrigation prospects for crops like samba paddy are looking promising.

Risk of Sudden Releases Remains

Officials warned that continued heavy rainfall could necessitate sudden and large-scale water releases, potentially leading to temporary flooding in settlements along the riverbanks.

Emergency Teams on Standby

Disaster response units and local administrations are on high alert, ready to respond to any emergency that may arise from further increases in the dam’s water level.