Chennai: The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has predicted heavy rainfall over the Nilgiris and several western districts of Tamil Nadu on Saturday, as the state prepares for the onset of the northeast monsoon within the coming days.

Which areas will be affected?

According to the latest bulletin, strong convective activity triggered by a low-pressure system over the Comorin Sea and adjoining Gulf of Mannar has intensified cloud formation over southern and western Tamil Nadu.

Districts expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunder and lightning, include the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Dindigul, Theni, Madurai, Sivaganga, Dharmapuri, Salem, Tiruvannamalai, and Tirupattur.

What warnings have been issued?

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea in the southern coastal regions, Gulf of Mannar, and adjoining Comorin Sea, where wind speeds are forecast to range between 35 and 45 kmph and may occasionally reach up to 55 kmph.

In Chennai and its suburbs, partly cloudy skies are expected, with moderate rainfall or thunderstorms likely in a few areas during the evening and night hours. The maximum temperature is predicted to hover around 34 degrees Celsius, while the minimum is likely to remain between 25 and 26 degrees Celsius.

Are there risks in the hilly areas?

Officials warned that continuous rainfall over the past week has left hill slopes in the Nilgiris saturated, raising concerns about minor landslides and disruptions along key ghat routes, including Coonoor–Mettupalayam and Gudalur–Nadugani stretches. District administrations have been put on alert, with disaster response teams stationed at vulnerable locations.

Is the northeast monsoon about to set in?

Meteorologists noted that easterly winds have strengthened over the Bay of Bengal, signalling the transition from southwest to northeast monsoon conditions.

In recent years, the Nilgiris and other ghat districts such as Coimbatore and Dindigul have seen episodes of intense monsoon rainfall causing flash floods, road blockages, and property damage.

Authorities have urged residents to exercise caution and avoid travel through hilly terrain during heavy downpours.

IANS inputs