CHENNAI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall in the hill regions of Coimbatore and the Nilgiris over the next three days, attributing the weather conditions to a weak low-pressure circulation prevailing over the lower levels of the atmosphere along the Tamil Nadu coast.
According to an official weather bulletin, the prevailing atmospheric system is expected to trigger widespread rain activity across parts of the state, particularly in the Western Ghats. On Thursday, heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places in the hilly areas of Coimbatore and the Nilgiris. At the same time, moderate rain is expected at one or two locations in the Western Ghats districts and the northern coastal regions of Tamil Nadu.
The IMD has also warned that the wet spell is likely to continue over the next two days. On Thursday and Friday, isolated heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds is expected in the hilly regions of Coimbatore, Tirunelveli, Nilgiris, Theni and Kanniyakumari districts.
Residents in these areas have been advised to remain cautious, particularly in vulnerable locations prone to landslides, waterlogging and falling trees during periods of intense rainfall and strong winds.
Apart from the hill districts, moderate rainfall is also likely at isolated places in the Western Ghats region and along the northern coastal belt of Tamil Nadu during the forecast period.
The weather department said the prevailing atmospheric conditions are favourable for intermittent rain activity, offering some relief to regions that have witnessed prolonged dry spells in recent weeks.
Despite the expected rainfall, the IMD has cautioned that daytime temperatures will remain above normal in many parts of Tamil Nadu.
Maximum temperatures across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are likely to remain up to 4 degrees Celsius above normal on Wednesday and Thursday.
The combination of above-normal temperatures and high humidity may lead to uncomfortable weather conditions, especially in coastal and inland plains.
The IMD has advised the public to take necessary precautions against heat exposure while also remaining alert for heavy rain and thunderstorm-related hazards in the affected districts.
Authorities are expected to closely monitor the evolving weather situation, particularly in the Western Ghats, where intense rainfall could impact transport and normal life if conditions worsen.
--IANS
