Southern Showers Predicted
The Chennai Regional Meteorological Centre has issued an alert, forecasting light rain in five southern districts of Tamil Nadu today. This is due to a peculiar
atmospheric development over the Indian Ocean. Specifically, a Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), which is a sizable cloud mass typically linked to monsoon rains, has materialized near the equator. Unusually, this phenomenon is directing moisture towards the state, even though the traditional monsoon season has concluded. The affected districts include Theni, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli, and Kanyakumari, where residents may experience brief periods of rain at scattered locations. This unusual weather pattern is also influenced by an upper atmospheric circulation over the eastern Indian Ocean and the southeastern Bay of Bengal, which is anticipated to evolve into a low-pressure system by February 15th. In parallel, a separate low-pressure area is already present over South Tamil Nadu and its surrounding vicinities. The majority of the state, along with Puducherry and Karaikal, is expected to experience dry weather conditions.
Upcoming Weather Outlook
Looking beyond today's forecast, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has outlined the expected weather trends for the upcoming week. For February 14th, isolated light rainfall is anticipated in the southern parts of Tamil Nadu. Subsequently, February 15th and 16th are predicted to bring dry conditions across the entire state. However, a return of light rain is on the horizon for February 17th and 18th, with isolated showers likely in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. This extended outlook suggests a dynamic weather pattern continuing into the latter half of February, with potential for further precipitation in certain regions. Residents are advised to monitor these evolving forecasts closely.
Dense Fog Warnings Issued
In addition to the rainfall predictions, a distinct fog warning has been issued, encompassing over 15 districts for the coming days, extending until February 17th. Light to moderate fog is expected to prevail during the early morning hours in several areas, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu, Vellore, Ranipet, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Namakkal, Dindigul, Nilgiris, Erode, Cuddalore, and Villupuram. The intensity of this fog may vary on different days within the specified period. A more specific warning for moderate fog has been issued for Chennai and its adjacent districts on February 16th and 17th. For Chennai and its suburbs specifically, the sky is expected to be partly cloudy, with some areas experiencing light fog in the early mornings of February 16th. Temperatures in Chennai are projected to range from a high of 30-31°C to a low of 20-21°C. Commuters in affected districts are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution while driving during these foggy conditions and to stay updated on the latest weather advisories.
