Northeast Monsoon Forecast: Heavy Rainfall and Orange Alert for Tamil Nadu from October 12 to 15

As the northeast monsoon prepares to make its presence felt, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has issued a forecast predicting significant rainfall across Tamil Nadu from October 12 to 15. In a proactive move, an orange alert has been declared for October 15 in ten districts, including the bustling city of Chennai, as well as Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, and the mountainous regions of Coimbatore and Tirupur. An orange alert serves as a crucial message for residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potentially severe weather conditions.

What’s Causing the Upcoming Rainfall?

The anticipated rainfall is attributed to a well-marked low-pressure area that developed over the east-central Arabian Sea off the coasts of Goa and north Karnataka starting October 10. This system has since moved northwestward and positioned itself over the east-central Arabian Sea off the Maharashtra coast by the morning of October 11. The RMC notes that the cyclonic circulation associated with this low-pressure system extends up to 5.8 kilometers above mean sea level, indicating a significant weather pattern that could intensify in the coming days.

Senthamarai Kannan, deputy director general of meteorology at the RMC, stated that this low-pressure system is expected to move west-northwestward and strengthen into a depression over the central Arabian Sea by the morning of October 13. Such developments often lead to increased rainfall across adjacent regions, and Tamil Nadu is bracing for the impact.

Detailed Weather Forecast for Tamil Nadu and Puducherry

For the week ahead, the RMC has forecast moderate to very heavy rainfall across various parts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Specific warnings have been issued for heavy rainfall in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, and Thoothukudi districts, as well as the ghat areas of Coimbatore and Tirupur. Other regions likely to experience significant rainfall include Nilgiris, Erode, Salem, Namakkal, Karur, Dindigul, Theni, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Madurai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, and Pudukkottai.

Fishermen Urged to Stay Cautious

Fishermen are being advised to refrain from venturing into the sea, as squally weather is predicted with wind speeds potentially reaching between 35 km/h to 45 km/h, gusting up to 55 km/h. The safety of those working at sea is a top priority, and authorities are taking steps to ensure that all necessary precautions are communicated effectively.

A Welcome Change in Weather for Chennai Residents

Chennai residents are currently enjoying a respite from the recent heatwave, with pleasant weather reported on Friday. The forecast indicates that the city will remain cloudy over the next few days. According to the RMC, moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is expected in some areas. The maximum temperature is predicted to range between 32°C and 33°C, while the minimum temperature is expected to hover around 25°C to 26°C. For the next 48 hours, the sky condition is likely to remain partly cloudy, giving residents a brief respite before the monsoon rains begin.

Preparing for the Monsoon: Tips for Residents

As the northeast monsoon approaches, it is essential for residents to take precautionary measures. Here are some tips to stay safe:

1. Stay Informed: Keep track of the latest weather updates from reliable sources such as the RMC or local news outlets.
2. Emergency Kits: Prepare an emergency kit that includes essentials like food, water, first aid supplies, and important documents.
3. Secure Your Property: Check for any potential leaks or weaknesses in your home that may lead to flooding. Secure outdoor items that could be blown away by strong winds.
4. Avoid Flooded Areas: Do not attempt to drive or walk through flooded areas, as currents can be deceptive and dangerous.
5. Stay Indoors During Storms: If thunderstorms occur, stay indoors and away from windows to avoid injury from lightning or debris.

As Tamil Nadu prepares for the upcoming monsoon, residents are urged to remain vigilant and heed weather warnings. The arrival of the northeast monsoon brings much-needed rainfall to the region, replenishing water sources and supporting agriculture. By taking necessary precautions, residents can ensure their safety and well-being during this season of change.