Chennai: The Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai has forecast that widespread rainfall will persist across Tamil Nadu, as well as in Puducherry and Karaikal, until 26 September.

The update comes after several districts in the state recorded significant showers in the past 24 hours. According to the weather office, the highest rainfall was observed in Arakkonam in Ranipet district, which received 7 cm. Ambattur in Tiruvallur district, along with Ayyappakkam and Korattur in Chennai, each recorded 6 cm of rainfall.

Officials noted that most northern districts, along with parts of the south, experienced moderate to heavy rain.

What is causing the ongoing wet conditions?

Meteorologists attributed the current weather to a low-level atmospheric circulation over the southern parts of Tamil Nadu. This system is expected to continue influencing weather patterns for the next five days, bringing intermittent rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across both northern and southern districts.

Puducherry and Karaikal are also expected to experience similar conditions during this period.

What is the forecast for Chennai?

In the city, light to moderate showers are expected, accompanied by thunder and lightning in certain areas. Commuters have been advised to plan their travel carefully, as sudden spells of rain may disrupt road traffic in low-lying areas.

The southwest monsoon has been performing steadily over Tamil Nadu since its onset on 1 June. From then until Saturday, the state has received approximately 30 cm of rainfall, which is 5 per cent higher than the long-period average. Weather scientists have described this as a “normal” monsoon season with a slightly positive trend.

Warnings issued

Looking ahead, meteorologists are closely monitoring the Bay of Bengal, where a new low-pressure system is likely to form near the Myanmar-Bangladesh coast on 25 September. If it intensifies, it could further enhance rainfall over Tamil Nadu and neighbouring regions in the coming days.

With schools, offices, and agricultural activities all being affected by the continuing wet spell, officials have urged residents to remain alert to weather bulletins. Fishermen have also been advised to exercise caution while venturing into the sea during this period.