Chennai and several other districts of Tamil Nadu are likely to receive moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds on Monday, while isolated heavy showers are forecast in the hill regions of Coimbatore and the Nilgiris.
The Chennai Regional Meteorological Centre said a weak low-pressure system persisted in the lower levels of the atmosphere over the Tamil Nadu coastal region, which is expected to trigger unsettled weather across parts of the state and neighbouring Puducherry.
Moderate rain with thunderstorms is likely at isolated places in the Western Ghats districts and in Chengalpattu, Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Ranipet on Monday, the weather office said.
Similar conditions, accompanied by strong surface winds, have been forecast in parts of Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore, Salem, Madurai and Tirupattur districts, as well as Puducherry.
The department said rainfall would be scattered, with significant variation in intensity across localities. The hill areas of Coimbatore and the Nilgiris may experience heavier spells, with heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms likely at isolated places in these regions on Monday and Tuesday.
Residents and travellers in the hill districts have been advised to remain alert to sudden changes in weather, particularly during thunderstorms and periods of intense rainfall.
Daytime temperatures across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are expected to remain close to normal until August 27, with no significant departure from seasonal conditions forecast. However, cloudy skies and intermittent showers may provide temporary relief from the heat in some areas.
The Meteorological Department has also warned of rough sea conditions over the next four days. Squally winds reaching speeds of up to 65 kmph are likely along and off the Tamil Nadu coast, over the Gulf of Mannar and adjoining parts of the Comorin Sea.
Fishermen and operators of small boats have been urged to exercise caution and follow official marine weather advisories before venturing into the affected waters. Those already at sea have been advised to remain alert to sudden strengthening of winds and reduced visibility during rain and thunderstorms.
Isolated showers may also occur in other parts of the state during the forecast period.
(With IANS inputs)
