IANSChennai: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rain alert for southern Tamil Nadu, forecasting intense showers over the next 24 hours in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, and Tenkasi districts.

According to the IMD, the northeast monsoon is set to strengthen, bringing widespread rainfall to the southern and delta regions of the state.

Even before the warning, several districts experienced heavy rain on Saturday night. Kanyakumari district witnessed downpours in Nagercoil and nearby areas such as Boothapandi, Suchindram, and Sunganthakai. The night-long showers cooled temperatures, eased humidity, and soaked the soil, though residents reported waterlogging in a few low-lying localities.

In Madurai district, moderate to heavy rain lashed Thirupparankundram, Thirumangalam, Vadakarai, Chengulam, Karisalpatti, and Rayapalayam. Streets became slippery and visibility dropped during the late-night showers. Local farmers said the rain would help standing crops in the region.

Karur recorded a steady drizzle through the night, while Coimbatore’s western suburbs, including Perur, Pachapalayam, Thithipalayam, Kalampalayam, and Madampatti, received mild showers after several dry weeks. Residents noted that the rainfall helped recharge open wells and groundwater levels.

IMD officials said heavy rain is expected to continue in the hilly belts of Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari, due to a low-pressure trough over the southern peninsula. The southern and delta districts, including Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, and Nagapattinam, are likely to experience more intense showers on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Chennai may see light to moderate rain, accompanied by cloudy skies and gusty winds.

Authorities have advised residents in the southern districts to remain vigilant for potential waterlogging and minor landslides as the monsoon continues to gain strength.

IANS