Will Tamil Nadu Experience Heavy Rain? Orange Alert Issued for Five Districts

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Low-pressure area expected to intensify.
- Orange alert issued for five districts.
- Significant rainfall anticipated until May 30.
- Preparedness measures reviewed by Deputy Chief Minister.
- Financial assistance provided to affected families.
Chennai, May 28 (NationPress) The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has reported that a low-pressure area has developed over the northwest Bay of Bengal, near the Odisha coast, and is anticipated to strengthen in the coming 48 hours.
Several districts in Tamil Nadu, particularly in the southern region, have already seen above-normal rainfall due to another low-pressure system in the Arabian Sea, and additional rain is expected until May 30.
The low-pressure area is projected to gradually shift northwards towards Bangladesh and Myanmar over the next few days, which will lead to considerable rainfall in Tamil Nadu. A lull in rainfall activity is likely starting June 1.
An orange alert has been issued for the ghat areas of Coimbatore, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Theni, and Nilgiris districts, where heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated. The Orange Alert, part of the IMD's weather warning system, indicates that residents should remain vigilant and prepared for possible disruptive weather.
Heavy rain may also affect Tiruppur, Dindigul, and Kanyakumari.
Overall, Tamil Nadu has recorded a staggering 96 percent excess rainfall from March 1 to May 27.
According to forecasts by the IMD, Tamil Nadu is expected to experience above-normal rainfall during the ongoing southwest monsoon, with daytime temperatures in June likely remaining below normal.
The early onset of the monsoon and thunderstorms have significantly alleviated the extreme summer conditions, with Chennai narrowly avoiding temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius this year.
Data reveals that temperatures have been below average throughout much of May, historically the peak summer month.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin reviewed preparedness measures in Chennai and surrounding areas for both the southwest and northeast monsoons on Tuesday evening. He examined stormwater drainage projects and precautions in flood-prone areas affected by last year’s northeast monsoon.
The ongoing heavy downpour in the Nilgiris district has led to partial damage to at least 17 houses, resulting in the relocation of 275 residents to temporary shelters as a precaution. In a relief initiative, Nilgiris MP and former Union Minister A. Raja, along with Tamil Nadu Assembly Chief Whip K. Ramachandran, visited the impacted areas and provided financial assistance to victims, with each family receiving Rs 8,000 from the government. Additionally, A. Raja contributed Rs 10,000 from his own funds to each affected family.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with disaster response teams on standby across vulnerable areas within the district.