IMD forecasts Western Ghats rain till July 16; dry spell, heat alert for Tamil Nadu
Synopsis
While the Western Ghats get moderate rain through 16 July, most of Tamil Nadu — including Chennai — faces a dry spell with temperatures threatening to rise 3°C above normal. The IMD has simultaneously warned fishermen of gusty 55 kmph winds over the Arabian Sea, making this a split-weather alert that affects both residents and coastal communities.
Key Takeaways
IMD has forecast moderate rainfall over Western Ghats districts of Tamil Nadu until Thursday, 16 July .
Dry weather is expected to prevail across most of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry from Monday onwards.
Maximum temperatures could rise up to 3 degrees Celsius above normal across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in the coming days.
Chennai is likely to see a maximum temperature of around 38 degrees Celsius on Sunday, with no rainfall expected.
Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the central-east Arabian Sea due to winds of up to 55 kmph until Wednesday .
A coastal trough along the Tamil Nadu coast is the primary weather system driving current conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate rainfall over the Western Ghats districts of Tamil Nadu through Thursday, 16 July, even as most of the state braces for a predominantly dry spell and a significant rise in daytime temperatures. The forecast, issued by the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), reflects the current southwest monsoon pattern concentrated along the hill districts.
Weather Pattern Driving the Forecast
A trough running along the Tamil Nadu coast is the primary system influencing weather across the state. Under its influence, isolated locations in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal are likely to receive light rainfall on Sunday. From Monday onwards, however, dry conditions are expected to prevail across most districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, with no indications of widespread rainfall over the plains during the current forecast period.
Western Ghats to Get Relief, Plains to Stay Dry
The Western Ghats districts will continue to receive moderate spells of rain until Thursday, offering some relief to hill communities. In contrast, meteorologists say only isolated areas in the plains are expected to see brief rain spells. The divergence between the hill districts and the plains is typical of the southwest monsoon's behaviour along Tamil Nadu's geography, where the Ghats act as a natural barrier intercepting moisture-laden winds.
Heat Alert: Temperatures May Rise 3°C Above Normal
Even as parts of the state receive scattered showers, the IMD has warned that maximum temperatures across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry could climb up to 3 degrees Celsius above normal over the coming days. In Chennai, skies are expected to remain partly cloudy on Sunday with no rainfall anticipated. The maximum temperature in the city is likely to hover around 38 degrees Celsius, making conditions warm and humid. Residents have been advised to limit prolonged exposure to the afternoon sun and stay adequately hydrated.
Fishermen Cautioned Over Arabian Sea Conditions
The IMD has also issued a caution for fishermen operating in the Arabian Sea. Strong winds with speeds of up to 55 kmph are expected over parts of the central-east Arabian Sea until Wednesday. Fishermen have been advised to exercise caution before venturing into the sea due to rough weather and gusty wind conditions.
What to Watch
The weather department has stated it will continue monitoring atmospheric conditions and issue further advisories if significant changes emerge. With temperatures set to rise and dry weather likely across the plains, health authorities in affected districts may issue additional public advisories in the coming days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which districts in Tamil Nadu will receive rainfall till July 16?
The IMD has forecast moderate rainfall specifically over the Western Ghats districts of Tamil Nadu until Thursday, 16 July. Most other districts, including those in the plains and coastal areas, are expected to experience dry weather from Monday onwards.
Will it rain in Chennai this week?
No, the IMD has ruled out rainfall in Chennai on Sunday. The city is expected to remain partly cloudy with a maximum temperature of around 38 degrees Celsius, making conditions warm and humid.
Why are temperatures rising even during the monsoon season?
A coastal trough is channelling moisture towards the Western Ghats while leaving the plains largely dry. Without cloud cover or rainfall to moderate heat, maximum temperatures across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry could rise up to 3 degrees Celsius above normal over the coming days.
What is the warning issued for fishermen?
The IMD has cautioned fishermen against venturing into the central-east Arabian Sea until Wednesday due to strong winds of up to 55 kmph and rough sea conditions. Fishermen are advised to exercise caution before heading out.
What health precautions should residents take?
The IMD and authorities have advised residents to avoid prolonged exposure to the afternoon sun and remain adequately hydrated as temperatures continue to climb above normal levels across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
