Chennai: Tamil Nadu Braces for Heavy Rainfall with Red Alert Issued for May 20
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai has forecasted intensified rainfall across several parts of Tamil Nadu, issuing a red alert for May 20.
The state is expected to experience extremely heavy rains on Monday, prompting authorities to prepare for potential impacts.
In the days leading up to May 20, Tamil Nadu will see moderate rainfall, with an orange alert in effect for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This period of sustained rain is anticipated to bring significant relief from the recent heatwave conditions that have gripped the region.
The meteorological center has emphasized the need for caution as heavy to very heavy rains are likely to occur across various districts. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
The forecasted heavy rainfall and alerts underscore the importance of preparedness and vigilance as the state navigates through this period of adverse weather conditions.
Tamil Nadu can now expect a respite from heatwave conditions for at least the next 10 days, a welcome change during the peak of summer. This weather shift is attributed to upper air circulation over the Gulf of Mannar, Comorin area, and south Tamil Nadu, which is expected to trigger widespread rain accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 km per hour until May 22.
The rain bands are projected to persistently sweep across southern Tamil Nadu and districts along the Western Ghats as the weather system evolves. On Friday, very heavy rainfall measuring up to 20 cm is anticipated in isolated locations within Kanniyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, and Theni. Additionally, soaking rain with intensities up to 11 cm is forecasted for 13 districts, including Madurai, Coimbatore, and Ramanathapuram.
Various parts of the state, as well as the northern interior regions of Tamil Nadu, will experience heavy bouts of rain over the next few days. Particularly on May 20, the western ghat areas might see extremely heavy rainfall in certain spots.
The persistent rainfall is expected to lead to cooler temperatures across Tamil Nadu over the next five days. The RMC has indicated that the maximum temperature will gradually decrease by three to four degrees Celsius, with some regions potentially experiencing below-normal temperatures.