The meteorological department has predicted heavy rain in Coimbatore, Dindigul, Tirupur and the Nilgiris for next few hours in the wake of cyclone Gaja. Temporary shelters have been set up in Valparai as a precautionary measure.

Coimbatore District Collector TN Hariharan declared a holiday for schools in the district. However, there many schools did not obey the order, creating confusion among parents.

It has been raining heavily since Thursday night, though there was some respite this afternoon. Rain clouds have moved from Kanuvai to Anaikatti, leaving kanuvai partly cloudy, windy and cold. Construction workers had to stop their work, says social activist R Joshua.

Businessman N Arun said, “Coimbatore’s traffic has not been affected. It has been drizzling since morning with the likelihood of water clogging in places like Avinashi Road flyover, cross cut flyover and railway station area. However, everything seems to be under control until now.”

The intensity of showers has been reduced overnight. “However, it is still windy and breezy. The weather is very pleasant in Avianashi. There are chances of a shower,” says, M Iswarya, a teacher.

R Sarita, a resident of Gandhipuram, said, “Cloudy night with outbreaks of light rain. It drizzled a little in the morning. It’s partially cloudy now and there are chances of rainfall in this area.”

M Manikandan, a sales manager, says, “In Madhukkarai, it was a pleasant morning and continues to be a pleasant. Pollachi area has received rain in pockets. I can see lingering showers during the day. The commute was no a hassle. It’s like every other day. “