What is Behind the Orange Alert for TN’s Ghat Region?

Synopsis
The Regional Meteorological Centre has issued an orange alert for Tamil Nadu's ghat districts, anticipating heavy rain from June 13-16. With the Nilgiris expecting severe downpours, residents are urged to take precautions against landslides and waterlogging. This pivotal weather shift offers relief from the oppressive summer heat, making it a situation to watch closely.
Key Takeaways
- Orange alert issued for Tamil Nadu ghat districts.
- Heavy rainfall expected from June 13 to 16.
- Nilgiris may receive extremely heavy downpours.
- Authorities advise residents to take precautions.
- Gusty winds expected alongside rainfall.
Chennai, June 12 (NationPress) The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has raised an orange alert for various ghat districts in Tamil Nadu, predicting intense rainfall from June 13 to 16.
The Nilgiris, Coimbatore, and surrounding hilly areas are anticipated to experience heavy to extremely heavy rain, with certain locations in the Nilgiris potentially seeing downpours exceeding 204.4 mm on June 14 and 15.
Officials have advised residents in these regions to stay vigilant and implement necessary safety measures against possible hazards such as landslides, waterlogging, and diminished visibility.
As per the meteorological department, an orange alert indicates a potentially disruptive weather scenario, frequently linked to heavy rainfall, necessitating readiness for abrupt changes in weather conditions.
Strong winds blowing at speeds of 30-40 kmph are also forecasted, increasing risks in sensitive areas.
The upcoming week’s weather forecast suggests a progressive increase in rainfall throughout the state.
Beginning Tuesday, regions of North Tamil Nadu — including Cuddalore and Ariyalur — are expected to witness a rise in precipitation levels.
The ghat regions of Coimbatore and Nilgiris will see heightened rainfall starting June 12, peaking on June 14.
Southern districts like Theni, Tenkasi, and Kanniyakumari are also forecasted to experience significant rainfall over the week.
The meteorological agency has urged local administrations to ensure disaster response teams and emergency protocols are in readiness.
In Chennai and nearby areas, the recent rainfall has provided substantial relief from the extreme summer heat. Other parts of the city also reported moderate showers during the day. By 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, the Nungambakkam weather station recorded 15.6 mm of rain, offering a welcome respite as daytime temperatures had persistently hovered around 38 degrees Celsius.
The local forecast for Chennai over the next two days anticipates partly cloudy skies with occasional light to moderate showers, continuing the much-needed relief from the recent heatwave conditions.