Widespread rainfall is likely across Tamil Nadu till August 17, with several districts expected to experience thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds, the Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai said on Thursday.
The wet spell is being attributed to a weak low-level atmospheric circulation over the coastal areas of Tamil Nadu, which is expected to create favourable conditions for rainfall across parts of the state over the next few days.
According to the forecast, isolated places in the Western Ghats districts are likely to receive light to moderate rain on Thursday, with thunderstorms, lightning and strong surface winds possible in some areas.
The weather office advised people to exercise caution during periods of intense lightning and avoid taking shelter under trees or near exposed structures.
Rainfall activity is expected to spread to more districts on Friday, August 14. Moderate rain is likely at one or two places in the Western Ghats region, as well as in Madurai, Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Villupuram, Sivaganga and Ramanathapuram districts.
The weather office said rainfall is unlikely to be continuous or uniform across the state, with short and localised spells expected. While some areas may remain dry, nearby locations could experience thunderstorms and showers.
Chennai is also likely to witness a change in weather later on Thursday, with parts of the city expected to receive moderate rain accompanied by thunder and lightning during the evening or night. Cloudy conditions are likely to develop towards the latter part of the day.
The weather office has advised commuters to remain alert as sudden showers could reduce visibility and cause waterlogging on low-lying roads. Motorists have also been urged to exercise caution during thunderstorms and strong winds.
The rainfall is expected to provide some relief from humid conditions in many areas, though lightning and gusty winds may remain a concern, particularly in the hill districts and exposed coastal stretches.
The Regional Meteorological Centre will continue to monitor the atmospheric circulation and issue district-level updates if the weather system strengthens.
(IANS Inputs)
