Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are bracing for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and cyclone warnings over the next few days, as forecasted by the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai. On December 24, isolated heavy rains are expected in districts like Chengalpattu, Viluppuram, Cuddalore, and Puducherry. Thunderstorms and lightning are anticipated on December 25 across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the Karaikal region, with lighter rainfall in other areas. A third-level cyclone alert has also been issued for seven ports, including Chennai, Cuddalore, and Nagapattinam.
The weather is influenced by a cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal near northern Tamil Nadu and southern Andhra Pradesh coasts. This system is likely to bring additional rainfall between December 26 and 28, with light to moderate showers predicted for isolated areas. Local residents have been advised to remain cautious of potential disruptions caused by the weather. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.
The rains provide relief from recent high temperatures but follow the devastation caused by Cyclone Fengal in late November. The storm claimed 12 lives and submerged over 2 lakh hectares of agricultural land, severely affecting farmers. With memories of the recent cyclone still fresh, the current weather situation underscores the need for preparedness and resilience in facing such challenges.