After nearly a month of prolonged dry weather, Tamil Nadu is set to receive rainfall starting from February 26, bringing relief to several regions. According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai, scattered rainfall is expected over the south coastal and delta regions on February 28 and March 1. The return of rain is also anticipated to lower temperatures, particularly in southern Tamil Nadu.
The numerical weather models have predicted that coastal Tamil Nadu will receive its first spell of rain on February 26. The intensity is expected to increase by February 27 and spread further to the southern parts of the state by February 28. The rains are likely to continue until March 2, providing a much-needed break from the prevailing dry conditions.
Officials at the RMC have indicated that this rainfall could serve as an early sign of pre-monsoon showers. The rains are being triggered by a cyclonic circulation moving over the equatorial region, which is interacting with an easterly trough. This system is expected to bring rainfall to Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal.
While some northern districts of Tamil Nadu might receive scattered rainfall on February 28 and March 1, the southern parts of the state are expected to experience more pronounced showers. According to Mr. P. Senthamarai Kannan, Director of the Area Cyclone Warning Centre at RMC Chennai, heavy rainfall is likely in the delta districts and south coastal areas, including Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanniyakumari, on Friday.
By March 1, widespread rainfall is expected in many parts of southern Tamil Nadu, although heavy rainfall will be limited to a few districts such as Tenkasi and Thoothukudi. Meanwhile, the northern parts of Tamil Nadu may experience a rise in maximum temperatures due to the concentration of rainfall in the southern districts.
As the month comes to an end on a wet note, the return of rainfall is expected to bring much-needed relief from the dry spell and provide a promising start to the pre-monsoon season.