Chennai, Nov 9 (NationPress) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has raised a heavy rain alert for southern Tamil Nadu, predicting intense showers over the next 24 hours in the districts of Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, and Tenkasi.

The weather bureau cautioned that the northeast monsoon is expected to gain strength, leading to widespread rainfall across the southern and delta regions of the state. Even prior to this alert, several districts experienced rainfall on Saturday night. The Kanyakumari district saw significant downpours in Nagarkovil and nearby areas such as Boothapandi, Suchindram, and Sunganthakai.

These overnight rains have cooled the atmosphere, saturated the ground, and provided relief from the humidity. Local inhabitants reported instances of waterlogging in some low-lying regions.

Madurai district also felt the effects of moderate to heavy rain, particularly in areas like Thirupparankundram, Thirumangalam, Vadakarai, Chengulam, Karisalpatti, and Rayapalayam.

The streets became slippery, and visibility diminished during the late-night precipitation. Farmers expressed that this rain would positively impact the standing crops in the area.

In Karur, a persistent drizzle lasted through the night. Both motorists and pedestrians navigated the wet conditions, while light showers in Coimbatore’s western suburbs, including Perur, Pachapalayam, Thithipalayam, Kalampalayam, and Madampatti, offered much-needed relief after several weeks of dryness.

Residents mentioned that the rainfall contributed to the recharge of open wells and groundwater supplies in the region.

According to IMD officials, heavy rainfall is anticipated to persist in the hilly areas of Tirunelveli and Tenkasi, along with Kanyakumari due to a low-pressure trough situated over the southern peninsula.

The southern and delta districts, including Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Thanjavur, and Nagapattinam, are likely to experience further intense showers on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Chennai could see light to moderate rainfall accompanied by overcast skies and gusty winds.

Authorities have advised residents in the southern districts to remain vigilant regarding potential waterlogging and minor landslides as the monsoon intensifies.