South Tamil Nadu Faces Heavy Rain During Deepavali, Forecast Till November 8

South T.N. likely to experience a wet Deepavali this year with heavy rain forecast till Nov. 8

The Regional Meteorological Centre has forecast enhanced rainfall over Tamil Nadu from November 5, with south Tamil Nadu expected to receive a particularly active spell as the northeast monsoon returns to its active phase.

The strengthening of easterly winds and a cyclonic circulation have shifted the zone of intense rainfall towards the southern districts of the State.

Heavy rain to spread across more districts

Heavy rainfall is expected over Theni, Dindigul and Madurai districts on November 5.

The spell is likely to spread to more districts, including Thoothukudi and Sivaganga, on November 6.

RMC officials said north coastal districts would also experience wet weather till November 8 because of strengthening moist, easterly winds.

The change in weather comes as Cyclone Murasu weakens into a well-marked low pressure area, allowing the northeast monsoon to return to its active phase.

V.R. Durai, Head, Regional Weather Forecasting Centre, said an upper air cyclonic circulation over south Tamil Nadu and its neighbourhood would bring widespread rainfall, particularly over southern and delta districts, till November 8.

Heavy rainfall is expected to cover Thanjavur, Ramanathapuram and Tiruvarur on November 8.

Districts along the Western Ghats have chances of moderate rainfall this week, while a few other places are expected to receive light rain.

“Tamil Nadu is likely to experience a wet Deepavali this year,” Mr. Durai said.

Rainfall already recorded in several places

On Wednesday, several places recorded light to moderate rainfall till 7 p.m.

Salem received 4 cm of rain, while Krishnagiri recorded 3 cm and Thanjavur received 2 cm.

Ramanathapuram and Tirunelveli were also among the places that received rainfall during the period.

The rainfall activity could strengthen further after November 8, with easterly waves expected to intensify over Tamil Nadu, including its coastal districts.

Surplus likely to increase

The wet spell is expected to keep the maximum temperature close to normal in most parts of Tamil Nadu till Sunday.

The State’s seasonal rainfall is currently 11% above its normal share of 20.2 cm since October 1.

Officials said the ongoing wet weather was expected to increase this rainfall surplus.

Source: The Hindu