Chennai: The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) on Tuesday forecast heavy rainfall in the hilly regions of Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli district and at one or two locations in Tenkasi district. Parts of the state, Puducherry, and Karaikal are expected to receive light to moderate showers accompanied by thunderstorms.

According to the bulletin issued on Tuesday afternoon, changes in the speed and direction of easterly winds are likely to trigger rainfall activity across several parts of the region. As a result, isolated places in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal may witness light to moderate rain with thunder and lightning during the day.

The department specifically warned of the possibility of heavy rain at one or two locations in the ghat areas of Tirunelveli and Tenkasi districts. It added that similar weather conditions are likely to continue over the next few days.

On Wednesday, Thursday, and December 22, parts of southern and northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. However, between December 19 and 21, the department predicts predominantly dry weather conditions across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal.

The Meteorological Department noted that there would be no significant change in minimum temperatures across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, from December 18 to 20, the minimum temperatures in some parts of Tamil Nadu may dip by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius below normal, bringing relatively cooler night-time conditions.

For Chennai and its suburban areas, the forecast indicates a partly cloudy sky. Moderate rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is likely at a few locations within the city. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 28 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is likely to remain between 23 and 24 degrees Celsius.

Are coastal areas at risk?

The Meteorological Centre has issued a strong warning for coastal regions. Squally winds with speeds ranging from 35 to 45 kmph, gusting intermittently up to 55 kmph, are likely to prevail over the south Tamil Nadu coast, the Gulf of Mannar, and the adjoining Kumari Sea region. In view of the rough sea conditions, fishermen have been advised not to venture into these areas until Friday.

Authorities have urged residents in vulnerable regions, especially in hilly and coastal areas, to remain cautious and follow official advisories closely.

IANS