The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather forecast indicating widespread light to moderate rainfall across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas. Certain regions, particularly in southern Tamil Nadu, are expected to witness extremely heavy rainfall.
Key Updates on Rainfall Predictions
- Extremely Heavy Showers: Districts such as Tenkasi, Tirunelveli, and Thoothukudi may experience isolated extremely heavy rainfall, while heavy to very heavy rains are likely in areas including Chennai, Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, and Ramanathapuram.
- Moderate Rainfall: The IMD has also predicted moderate rainfall on Friday and Saturday across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal.
- Precautionary School Closures: Schools and colleges in Puducherry and Karaikal will remain closed on December 13. Similarly, educational institutions in 11 Tamil Nadu districts, including Chennai, Villupuram, and Thanjavur, have been given a holiday as a precautionary measure.
The IMD has advised fishermen to avoid venturing into several coastal areas, including the Sri Lanka coast, Comorin area, and Gulf of Mannar, over the next few days due to turbulent sea conditions.
The Deputy Director General of the Chennai Meteorological Department, S. Balachandran, reported that the well-marked low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal has stagnated near the Gulf of Mannar. Vigorous activity from the Northeast Monsoon has resulted in very heavy rainfall at four locations and heavy showers at 72 other places in the past 24 hours.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for several districts, including Madurai, Sivaganga, and Dindigul, warning of moderate rains and thunderstorms.