The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Chennai and surrounding districts on Thursday, forecasting heavy rainfall ranging from 6cm to 12cm in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu, Times Now reported.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has predicted thunderstorms and moderate to heavy rain in isolated places across the region. However, despite the rain, temperatures will remain high and may still cause discomfort due to the combined effect of heat and humidity.
As per the RMC, strong chances of heavy rainfall have been noted in several areas including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Ranipet, Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, and Chengalpattu. The Nilgiris and the hill areas of Coimbatore are under a very heavy rainfall warning. This weather pattern is being attributed to light to moderate winds blowing from the west across the lower layers of the atmosphere, the report said.
Chennai is expected to record a maximum temperature of 35 to 36 degrees Celsius today. Despite the high temperature, thunderstorms and heavy rain are likely to affect several parts of the city.
The rainy spell is expected to continue in many regions of Tamil Nadu. The Nilgiris and Ghat areas in Coimbatore could see heavy rain daily from July 18 to 22. Northern districts like Kancheepuram, Ranipet, and Tiruvallur, and southern parts including Theni, Tenkasi, and Dindigul, are also likely to experience rain till July 20. Kanniyakumari and Tirunelveli may receive heavy showers on July 21 and 22.
However, daytime temperatures across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry (including Karaikal) may rise by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius above the normal range. This will likely lead to uncomfortable weather in many areas, RMC said.
In Chennai, the expected heavy rainfall may cause issues for commuters. Roads known for waterlogging, such as GST Road near Chromepet, Velachery Main Road, parts of Mount Road, and areas around T Nagar, Perambur, and Pulianthope, could see delays.
Smaller lanes in Madipakkam, Medavakkam, and Kolathur may also witness water accumulation. The city’s civic teams are on high alert, but people are advised to avoid low-lying roads and give themselves extra travel time during peak hours.
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