The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate rainfall across seven districts of Tamil Nadu on Thursday, 28 August, even as northern interior parts of the state brace for a rise in maximum temperatures of up to three degrees Celsius through 30 August. The contrasting outlook reflects a split in the state's weather pattern driven by a weak low-pressure circulation persisting over coastal areas.

Districts Under Rain Alert

According to the IMD's latest weather bulletin, moderate rainfall is expected at a few places in Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Kallakurichi, Tiruchi, Ariyalur, and Perambalur districts during the day. Some places in the delta districts are also likely to experience moderate showers. The department noted that a weak low-pressure circulation in the lower levels of the atmosphere over the Tamil Nadu coast is driving this activity.

Rainfall is expected to remain scattered rather than widespread, with conditions varying considerably between neighbouring areas. From Friday through 30 August, moderate rain is likely at one or two places in districts along the Western Ghats, while the rest of Tamil Nadu is forecast to see largely subdued rainfall activity during this period.

Temperature Rise in Northern Interior Belt

While coastal, delta, and Western Ghats regions prepare for intermittent showers, the northern interior districts face a different challenge. Maximum temperatures in these areas are likely to climb by as much as 3°C between Thursday and 30 August, potentially resulting in hot and uncomfortable conditions, particularly during afternoon hours.

Notably, any localised showers that do occur are unlikely to bring a widespread decline in temperatures across the state. Residents in the interior belt have been advised to take precautions against heat, especially during peak afternoon hours.

Chennai Outlook

In Chennai, skies are expected to remain partly cloudy through the day. Moderate rain may occur in a few parts of the city and its suburbs during the evening or night, though rainfall will not be uniform across the metropolitan area. The city is otherwise likely to remain warm, with increasing cloud cover raising the possibility of brief evening showers.

People travelling through rain-prone areas have been urged to follow local forecasts, particularly during evening hours when showers could affect visibility and road conditions.

IMD Monitoring Continues

The IMD has said it will continue to monitor the weak atmospheric system near the Tamil Nadu coast and issue updates if there is any significant change in its strength or movement. The department's dual advisory — cautioning both against rain disruption in coastal areas and heat stress in the interior — underscores the complexity of Tamil Nadu's weather during the late-monsoon transition period. Residents across the state have been advised to remain prepared for contrasting conditions in the days ahead.