CHENNAI: Heavy overnight rain inundated residential areas in Mudichur, Varadharajapuram and Annai Anjugam Nagar near Tambaram, while more than 10 electricity poles were found leaning in parts of Varadharajapuram, prompting residents to seek urgent action from the authorities.

Although the rain stopped by Sunday morning, rainwater remained stagnant at a height of nearly three feet in vacant plots near residential areas.

Residents feared that further rainfall could raise water levels and cause water to enter their homes.

They urged the authorities to clear blockages and obstructions in connecting stormwater drains to ensure the stagnant water was drained quickly.

Meanwhile, more than 10 electricity poles in Varadharajapuram were found leaning, raising concerns about public safety. Residents said there had been heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning on Sunday night, but no strong winds. They suspected that the soil around the bases of the poles might have loosened.

With the continued rainfall increasing soil moisture, residents feared that the poles could tilt further and fall, potentially causing electrical accidents and damage to property, besides endangering lives.

They urged electricity board officials to inspect the leaning poles and carry out immediate repairs before the northeast monsoon intensifies or another spell of heavy rain or strong winds hits the area.