Tamil Nadu Braces for Thunderous Skies: IMD Predicts Week-Long Rain & Storms

Get ready for a dynamic week of weather across Tamil Nadu! The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast predicting moderate rainfall, accompanied by exhilarating thunderstorms and dramatic lightning, set to sweep across the state from Friday, May 24th, through Thursday, May 30th.

This anticipated weather spell is attributed to an active upper air cyclonic circulation currently hovering over the Southwest Bay of Bengal, off the south Sri Lankan coast.

This system, extending up to 5.8 km above mean sea level, is poised to bring significant changes to the regional climate.

Residents can expect light to moderate rain to grace many parts of Tamil Nadu on May 24th and 25th. As the week progresses, the intensity will slightly taper, with a few places continuing to receive light to moderate showers from May 26th to May 30th.

However, some regions are on alert for heavier downpours.

The IMD specifically warns of isolated heavy rain over districts bordering the Western Ghats and adjoining areas, as well as several districts in North Tamil Nadu. This includes the picturesque Nilgiris, the industrial hub of Coimbatore, the scenic regions of Theni and Dindigul, along with Erode, Salem, Tirupattur, Kallakurichi, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Tiruchirappalli, Pudukottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai.

Along with the rain, be prepared for gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph, which could accompany the thunderstorms and lightning.

These conditions are expected in districts like Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Dindigul, Theni, Tenkasi, Erode, Salem, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Vellore, Kallakurichi, and Tiruvannamalai.

While the skies might be active, there's some good news on the temperature front. Maximum temperatures are forecast to be 2-4°C above normal in interior Tamil Nadu, but the IMD assures that heat wave conditions are highly unlikely across the state.

Even Chennai will experience manageable highs, with temperatures hovering between 37-38°C during this period.

A crucial advisory has been issued for fishermen. Strong winds, blowing at speeds of 40-45 kmph and gusting up to 55 kmph, are anticipated over the Southwest and Westcentral Bay of Bengal, off the coasts of South Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

Therefore, fishermen are strongly advised to refrain from venturing into these turbulent waters from May 24th to May 26th for their safety.