Heavy rainfall forecast in Tamil Nadu: Chennai and six districts on alert

Chennai: The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has warned of heavy rainfall across six districts of Tamil Nadu on Sunday, following the formation of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal.

The system, currently affecting central and adjoining eastern parts of the Bay, is bringing widespread showers and strong winds to the region. Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, and Villupuram districts, as well as Puducherry, are expected to receive heavy rain, according to the latest bulletin.

Rainfall is likely to intensify on Monday, with extremely heavy showers possible in Tiruvallur, Chennai, and Ranipet. Strong rain is also forecast for Chengalpattu, Kancheepuram, Vellore, Villupuram, and Puducherry. Officials said the weather system is part of a larger circulation over the central and northwestern Bay of Bengal, which is expected to strengthen over the next 24 hours.

“The low-pressure area is likely to move northwestward, bringing moderate to heavy rainfall to northern coastal districts of Tamil Nadu and parts of Puducherry,” the RMC said.

Fishermen have been strongly advised to avoid the sea due to squally winds. Wind speeds may reach 80 kmph over the southwest, southeast, and central Bay of Bengal, and could intensify to 100 kmph in the mid-western and northwestern sectors. Coastal residents have also been urged to exercise caution, as rough seas are expected.

Disaster management teams in the affected districts have been placed on high alert, and local authorities have begun preparatory measures to manage potential flooding in low-lying areas.

With the northeast monsoon active since October 16, many parts of Tamil Nadu have already recorded above-average rainfall over the past week. The weather office has said further updates will be issued as the system develops.

IANS