Tamil Nadu continues to grapple with relentless rainfall, leading to widespread waterlogging and disruption across several districts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an extended forecast, predicting more heavy showers will continue to batter the region until December 18th. This grim prediction follows the IMD’s earlier announcement regarding a well-marked low-pressure area over the Gulf of Mannar, which has now transitioned into a low-pressure area over Lakshadweep and the neighboring Maldives.
In an official notification released by the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) Chennai on December 13th, a concerning development was highlighted: “An upper air cyclonic circulation is likely to form over the south Andaman Sea around December 14th, 2024. Under its influence, a Low Pressure Area is likely to form over the southern parts of the Bay of Bengal and move west-northwestwards towards the Tamil Nadu coasts during the subsequent 48 hours.” This signifies a continuation, and potential intensification, of the current weather system.
Tamil Nadu: A State Under Siege
The IMD has issued specific warnings for various districts in Tamil Nadu. Light to moderate rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, is predicted across isolated areas of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal until December 18th. However, specific alerts highlight a heightened risk of severe weather in certain regions.
A yellow alert has been issued for heavy rain in one or two places across Ramanathapuram, Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai districts, and the Karaikal area on December 16th. This warning signifies the need for preparedness and caution in these districts.
The situation escalates further on December 17th, with an orange alert for very heavy rain predicted over Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai districts, and the Karaikal area. Heavy rains are also anticipated in Nagapattinam, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Villupuram, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Kallakurichi, Pudukkottai, Tiruchirappalli, Chengalpattu districts, and Puducherry. Residents in these areas are urged to take necessary precautions and follow official advisories.
Impact Beyond Tamil Nadu
The IMD’s forecast extends beyond Tamil Nadu. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted at isolated places in Kerala on December 13th, 17th, and 18th. Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema can also expect heavy rains at isolated places on December 16th and 17th. Furthermore, isolated areas of Lakshadweep are expected to experience heavy rainfall on December 13th, while the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are under a heavy rainfall watch from December 13th to 15th. The widespread nature of the weather system necessitates vigilance across the entire South Indian region.
Authorities in affected areas are urged to implement necessary measures to mitigate the impact of the anticipated heavy rainfall, including flood control, evacuation plans, and public safety announcements. Staying updated on the latest IMD forecasts is crucial for residents and officials alike to ensure public safety and minimize potential damage from this severe weather event.
