The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted widespread rainfall across Tamil Nadu on Thursday, warning of heavy showers in at least 21 districts due to an upper-level cyclonic circulation and lower-level convergence over southern India.
According to the IMD bulletin, Sriperumbudur in Kanchipuram district recorded the highest rainfall at 18 cm during the 24 hours ending Tuesday morning. This was followed by 13 cm in Manali New Town (Chennai), 10 cm in Guruvaadi (Ariyalur district), and 9 cm each in Korattur, Parimunai, and Ennore in Chennai.
The IMD said the prevailing weather pattern is likely to bring moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms across most parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. Strong winds reaching speeds of up to 40 kmph are also expected. Officials added that thunderstorms with moderate rain are likely to persist across many parts of the state until September 20.
Districts including Nilgiris, Erode, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Tiruvannamalai, Tirupattur, Vellore, Ranipet, Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, Kallakurichi, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Tiruchirappalli, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur are likely to receive heavy rain at isolated locations. Additionally, heavy showers are forecast at one or two locations in Tiruvallur, Ranipet, Vellore, and Kanchipuram districts on Thursday.
Chennai and its suburbs are expected to experience overcast skies with spells of moderate rain, accompanied by lightning and thunder.
The IMD has issued an advisory for coastal regions, warning of squally winds reaching 40–50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, over the Gulf of Mannar, Comorin Sea, and adjoining coastal areas of southern Tamil Nadu.
Fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea until conditions improve. Authorities have urged residents in low-lying areas to remain cautious of waterlogging and advised district administrations to stay on high alert for potential flooding and traffic disruptions.
(IANS)