Updated September 2026: in 2018 I recalled being stuck in my Chennai apartment for three days during the 2015 floods, working from home while running two laptops on a battery that was about to run out. I have rewritten it into practical advice on working from home during a flood or long power cut.
On the first day of the heavy rain I told my team lead I would work from home and warned that I might not be reachable. Power stayed on until about 11am while the rain kept pouring, and I knew it could be cut at any time. I had little work, so I switched on my office laptop and also my MacBook Pro to watch YouTube, since the satellite TV was out and the office laptop blocked most video. Later I realised how foolish it was to drain both laptops without thinking about three days at home without power.
What should you do first when a flood warning is issued?
- Charge everything: phones, laptops and power banks, to full.
- Tell your manager your plan: including that you may lose contact.
- Download what you need: documents and files for the next few days, in case the network fails.
- Stock basics: water, food that needs no cooking, torches and medicines.
How do you make laptop batteries last?
Use one device at a time, and keep the other fully charged in reserve. Lower screen brightness, close video and turn off Bluetooth. Use the phone for messages and save the laptop for work that cannot be done on a phone. A car charger with an inverter is useful if the car is safely parked above water.
What if mobile networks go down?
During the 2015 Chennai floods, power and mobile networks failed across large parts of the city. Agree in advance with your family and team how you will check in once you can, and keep a written list of important numbers.
Should you try to work at all?
Only if it is safe and your employer expects it. Most companies in Chennai suspended work during the worst days. Your safety and your family's come first, and a clear message to your manager is enough.
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