The Northeast monsoon is becoming stronger across Tamil Nadu, bringing heavy rainfall to several parts of the state. A low-pressure area near Comorin and parts of southern Tamil Nadu is causing widespread rain, and wet weather is expected to continue until October 26.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has issued weather alerts for several districts, warning people to prepare for heavy rainfall. Some areas may receive very heavy rain, while Chennai is also expected to experience periods of heavy rainfall over the coming days.
The weather department has said that rainfall in Chennai and other parts of northern Tamil Nadu could become heavier from October 25 onwards. The amount of rain after October 26 will depend on the development and movement of another low-pressure area expected to form over the Bay of Bengal.
Tamil Nadu Receives More Rain Than Usual
Tamil Nadu has received 13.3 centimetres of rainfall so far this month. This is around 23% higher than the normal amount expected for the same period.
The increase in rainfall shows that the Northeast monsoon is active across the state. Several districts have experienced continuous rain, cloudy skies and heavy downpours.
The rainfall has not been equal everywhere. Some places have received moderate showers, while others have recorded very heavy rainfall within a short period. The weather system continues to bring moisture and rain clouds across different parts of Tamil Nadu.
Very Heavy Rain Recorded in Kanniyakumari
Kanniyakumari district has experienced some of the heaviest rainfall during the current spell. Ezhudesam in the district recorded 15 centimetres of rain in a single day, indicating the intensity of the downpour.
Other districts, including Thoothukudi and Ramanathapuram, have also received heavy rainfall. These areas are among the places affected by the active monsoon system.
The weather department is closely monitoring the situation because continuous heavy rain can increase water levels in rivers, reservoirs and other water bodies. People living in low-lying areas should remain alert to local weather warnings and possible waterlogging.
Heavy Rain Alert for Kanniyakumari, Nilgiris and Coimbatore
The RMC has warned that Kanniyakumari, Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts may receive very heavy rainfall on Friday. Strong winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kilometres per hour are also possible in some areas.
Several other districts have been placed under yellow alerts for heavy rain. A yellow alert generally means that people should stay aware of changing weather conditions and follow official safety advice.
The weather department has advised people to take extra care in places where heavy rain and strong winds are expected. Heavy showers may affect road travel, reduce visibility and cause temporary waterlogging.
Chennai May Receive More Rain From October 25
Chennai has already been experiencing cloudy weather and rainfall as the Northeast monsoon becomes more active. The city may receive isolated heavy spells until Saturday.
According to RMC official V. R. Durai, northern Tamil Nadu, including Chennai, may experience heavy rainfall on Sunday and Monday, October 25 and 26.
Rainfall could become more widespread if the weather system over the Bay of Bengal develops as expected. However, the exact amount of rain will depend on the strength and direction of the system.
People travelling around Chennai should be prepared for wet roads and possible traffic delays during periods of heavy rain. Residents should also follow updated forecasts, as the timing and intensity of rainfall can change.
Moderate Rain in Several Other Districts
Moderate rainfall was recorded on Thursday in areas including Kodaikanal, Ariyalur and Coimbatore.
Hill stations and hilly areas may experience changing weather conditions as the monsoon continues. Heavy rainfall in these locations can sometimes lead to slippery roads, reduced visibility and localised waterlogging.
The RMC expects the active monsoon conditions to continue across Tamil Nadu until October 26. The intensity of the rain may vary from district to district, depending on the movement of rain clouds and the development of the low-pressure system.
Rivers and Reservoirs May Receive More Water
The continuing rainfall may increase water flow in rivers such as the Moyar and Bhavani. Rivers can rise when heavy rain occurs over their catchment areas, even if the rainfall is not equally strong along the entire river.
Reservoirs, including Pechiparai and Perunchani, may also receive increased inflows until October 24 because of the ongoing rainfall.
Higher inflows can help improve water storage, but sudden increases in river levels can also create risks for people living near riverbanks and low-lying areas. Water levels and reservoir conditions will need to be monitored as the rainfall continues.
Residents should avoid entering swollen rivers or attempting to cross flooded roads. People living near water bodies should follow instructions from local authorities if warnings are issued.
Bay of Bengal Weather System Will Decide What Happens Next
The rainfall forecast beyond October 26 will depend partly on a new low-pressure area expected to form over the Bay of Bengal by Friday.
A low-pressure area is a region where atmospheric pressure is lower than in the surrounding areas. Such systems can draw in moist air and lead to the formation of rain clouds, sometimes bringing widespread rainfall.
The strength, direction and speed of movement of this system will help determine which parts of Tamil Nadu receive more rain and how long the wet weather continues.
If the system becomes more active and moves in a way that supports rainfall over Tamil Nadu, some areas could continue to receive heavy showers. The weather department will assess the situation as more information becomes available.
People Advised to Follow Weather Updates
With the Northeast monsoon becoming stronger, residents across Tamil Nadu should keep track of official weather forecasts and district-level alerts. Those in areas expecting very heavy rainfall should take precautions, especially when travelling or living near rivers and other water bodies.
People should avoid flooded roads, stay away from fast-flowing water and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities. Motorists should drive carefully during heavy showers because waterlogging and poor visibility can make travel difficult.
The current weather system is expected to bring rain to many parts of Tamil Nadu until October 26. Chennai and other northern districts may receive heavier rainfall over the weekend and on Monday. However, the weather after that will depend on how the expected low-pressure area develops over the Bay of Bengal.