Brace for Impact: Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms to Lash North and Interior Tamil Nadu Until Sunday

Get ready for a significant shift in weather patterns across parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal! The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has sounded a crucial alert, forecasting widespread heavy rainfall accompanied by intense thunderstorms with lightning. This impending weather phenomenon is set to impact the northern and interior districts of Tamil Nadu, along with Puducherry and Karaikal, lasting until Sunday, March 17th.

Meteorological experts attribute this sudden change to a confluence of atmospheric conditions.

A trough in westerlies, combined with a cyclonic circulation strategically positioned over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, is creating the perfect recipe for these robust weather systems. These features are expected to funnel moisture and instability into the region, leading to the anticipated downpours and electrical storms.

The forecast specifies that isolated heavy rainfall is particularly likely on Thursday, March 14th, with subsequent days bringing widespread thunderstorms and lightning.

These conditions are expected to persist across a broad swathe of districts, including but not limited to Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Dindigul, Theni, Erode, Salem, Namakkal, Karur, Tiruchirappalli, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Kallakurichi, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Pudukkottai, Tiruvannamalai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Vellore, Tirupattur, and Ranipet.

While many areas will experience light to moderate showers, residents in the specified regions should brace for more intense, localized events.

Adding another layer to the forecast, the RMC also predicts that maximum temperatures across Tamil Nadu are likely to hover 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above normal during this period, even amidst the rains.

This combination of heat and humidity, coupled with significant precipitation, can lead to uncomfortable conditions and increased chances of strong convection.

Authorities urge residents in the affected areas to exercise caution. Stay updated with the latest weather bulletins, avoid open areas during thunderstorms, and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.

Farmers, in particular, are advised to be mindful of the forecast when planning their agricultural activities. Be prepared for potential disruptions and prioritize well-being as the region navigates through this spell of unseasonal, heavy weather.