The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms across the districts along the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu over the next seven days, while warning of isolated heavy rain in parts of the Nilgiris, Coimbatore and Theni districts later this week.
According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, a weak trough in the lower levels of the atmosphere persists over the Tamil Nadu coastal region.
The weather system is expected to trigger moderate rain with thunderstorms in the Western Ghats districts from July 29 onwards. The weather office said isolated places in the Nilgiris district are likely to receive heavy rainfall on July 30.
It further forecast heavy rain at one or two places in Coimbatore, Nilgiris and Theni districts on July 31 and again on August 1. While the rainfall is expected to benefit the hilly regions, the weather department has also cautioned that maximum temperatures are likely to remain significantly above normal across much of Tamil Nadu.
The IMD stated that maximum temperatures over Tamil Nadu and Puducherry could rise by up to 4 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average on July 29 and 30, resulting in hot and humid conditions in several parts of the state, particularly in the plains and coastal districts.
For Chennai, the Regional Meteorological Centre has forecast partly cloudy skies, with the possibility of rain in a few parts of the city. However, no significant rainfall has been predicted for the capital.
The city is expected to continue experiencing hot weather, with the maximum temperature likely to exceed about 39 degrees Celsius.
Residents have been advised to take precautions against heat stress, remain adequately hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours.
The contrasting weather pattern highlights the influence of the prevailing atmospheric conditions, bringing rainfall to the Western Ghats. At the same time, much of the rest of Tamil Nadu continues to experience above-normal temperatures. The weather department has advised the public, particularly those in the hill districts, to stay updated on local forecasts as rainfall intensity could vary over the coming days.
