Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Friday chaired a meeting of the Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority in Chennai to review preparedness for the southwest monsoon.According to an official release, following the onset of the southwest monsoon over the South Andaman Sea on May 16, conditions continue to remain favourable for its further intensification. In Tamil Nadu, the monsoon commenced on June 4.Based on the India Meteorological Department’s forecast that Tamil Nadu is likely to receive below-normal rainfall during this year’s southwest monsoon season, the Chief Minister was briefed by Secretaries of the departments concerned and Collectors of districts situated along the Western Ghats on the precautionary measures taken, the release said.Instructions were also given to remain fully prepared to face any situation and to ensure that emergency response centres in districts function round the clock. Rescue and relief teams were asked to be ready for deployment to any required area. Relief centres should also be maintained properly. The Electricity Department staff were instructed to immediately repair damaged electric lines, weak electric poles and transmission towers that are at risk of collapse, and to take swift action regarding snapped power lines during the rainy season, the release said,Minister for Revenue and Disaster Management K.A. Sengottaiyan, Chief Secretary M. Saikumar, and senior officials were present. Collectors of districts along the Western Ghats participated through video conference. Published - June 05, 2026 05:44 pm IST