The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has issued a yellow alert for nine coastal districts in Tamil Nadu, warning of heavy rains and thunderstorms expected from November 8, 2024. This forecast comes as a cyclonic circulation and a trough of low pressure prevail over the Bay of Bengal, creating conditions for intensified rainfall along the coast.The districts placed under yellow alert include Chengalpattu, Viluppuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, and Ramanathapuram. According to the RMC, these regions can expect heavy rainfall with possible thunderstorms, which could lead to local flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
As per extended-range predictions from dynamical models, near-normal to slightly above-normal rainfall is anticipated for coastal Tamil Nadu. Other areas across the state are likely to experience lighter, more moderate rains.
The weather system affecting Tamil Nadu is due to a cyclonic circulation centered over the southeast Bay of Bengal. A trough extends from this circulation towards south Tamil Nadu, driving heavy rainfall over the coastline. The Indian Meteorological Department has also indicated that the system is likely to strengthen into a low-pressure area in the coming days, which may increase rainfall intensity.
In view of the potential hazardous weather, authorities have cautioned fishermen in Tamil Nadu to avoid venturing into the Bay of Bengal on November 7 and 8. The forecast suggests squally weather with wind speeds reaching 35-45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph along the northern Tamil Nadu coast, making conditions risky for those at sea.
Recent weather patterns have already seen moderate to heavy rains in parts of the Western Ghats and southern Tamil Nadu. After a brief lull in monsoon activity, the new cyclonic circulation is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the state’s coastal districts.
With the anticipated rainfall, residents in the affected districts are advised to take necessary precautions, including avoiding low-lying areas prone to flooding and staying updated on weather alerts. Local authorities are also on alert, prepared to handle any potential disruptions caused by the heavy rains.
As the system over the Bay of Bengal develops, further updates and advisories from the Meteorological Department are expected to help residents and officials stay informed about changing weather conditions.