The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has forecast heavy rainfall across nine districts in Tamil Nadu on January 18 and 19. Districts likely to experience significant rainfall include Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Pudukottai, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari.  

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Fishermen are advised to refrain from heading out to sea over the next two days as squally conditions are expected, with wind speeds between 35-45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph. These conditions are anticipated along the southern Tamil Nadu coastline, the Comorin region, and the Gulf of Mannar.  

According to the RMC, the forecasted rainfall is linked to changes in wind flow patterns and elevated moisture levels over the sea. While heavy rainfall is likely in specific regions, coastal districts, including Chennai, may experience light to moderate rain in the coming days.

The northeast monsoon, which began on October 1, remains active in Tamil Nadu, according to weather officials. Coastal areas could also see isolated thunderstorms in addition to moderate rainfall.  

Chennai weather update

Chennai and its nearby areas have already experienced sporadic showers, with more rain expected in the coming days. Across Tamil Nadu, maximum temperatures are forecast to drop by 2-4 degrees Celsius, settling between 26 and 32 degrees from January 17 to 23.

Tamil Nadu has recorded a 14 per cent surplus in rainfall during the northeast monsoon season, with 447 mm compared to the seasonal average of 393 mm. Chennai witnessed a 16 percent surplus with 845 mm of rainfall, while Coimbatore experienced a 47 per cent increase.  

Impact of Cyclone Fengal

Cyclone Fengal, which struck Tamil Nadu between November 29 and December 1, caused significant damage, resulting in 12 fatalities and inundating over 2.11 lakh hectares of agricultural land.  

The Tamil Nadu government declared the cyclone a severe natural disaster. Chief Minister MK Stalin has sought Rs 2,000 crore in interim relief from the National Disaster Response Fund. While the Centre has sanctioned Rs 944 crore, the state has requested an additional Rs 6,000 crore for relief and infrastructure rebuilding.  

Residents have been advised to stay alert, particularly in vulnerable areas, as weather conditions remain volatile.