Chennai: After days of shifting skies, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are headed for a quieter weather phase, with dry conditions expected to dominate
for the next four days, the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) said in its latest forecast issued on Sunday. The update also signals a seasonal turning point, as the northeast monsoon is likely to withdraw from the region within the next 48 hours, marking the gradual end of the state’s main rainy spell.
Northeast Monsoon Likely to Withdraw Within 48 Hours
According to the RMC, the northeast monsoon is likely to withdraw from Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal and adjoining south Indian regions within the next two days. While a lower atmospheric circulation prevails over the Comorin Sea, it is not expected to bring widespread rainfall immediately.The forecast suggests dry weather from January 18 to 20 across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal. During this period, light fog/mist may form at isolated places in the early morning, which could reduce visibility for commuters.
Dry conditions are expected to continue on January 21 and 22 as well, keeping the region largely rain-free.
Chennai Weather Forecast: Partly Cloudy Skies, Mild Nights
For Chennai and suburbs, the next few days are expected to remain partly cloudy, with early morning mist/haze on January 18 and 19.
- January 18 (Day 1): Max 30–31°C, Min 19–20°C, partly cloudy with morning mist/haze
- January 19 (Day 2): Max 30–31°C, Min 19–20°C, partly cloudy with morning mist/haze
- January 20 (Day 3): Max 30–31°C, Min 19–20°C, partly cloudy with morning mist/haze
- January 21 (Day 4): Max 30–31°C, Min 20°C, partly cloudy
- January 22 (Day 5): Max 30–31°C, Min 20–21°C, partly cloudy
There are no weather warnings issued in the city forecast for the period.
Chennai Rains Forecast
The RMC indicated that the weather may shift slightly later in the week.
- January 23 (Day 6): Light to moderate rain may occur at one or two places over coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, while interior districts may remain dry.
Chennai: Max 31°C, Min 21–22°C, partly cloudy with light rain in some areas. - January 24 (Day 7): Light to moderate rain is likely at isolated places across Tamil Nadu, including Puducherry and Karaikal.
Chennai: Max 31°C, Min 22–23°C, partly cloudy with light rain in some areas.
As far as temperatures are concerned, the RMC noted that there is little chance of significant change in minimum temperatures between January 18 and 20. Minimum temperatures are expected to remain near normal or slightly below normal across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal.
Sea Warning: Strong Winds, Fishermen Asked Not to Venture Out
While land areas are expected to stay dry, sea conditions could be rough. The RMC warned that strong winds of 35–45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph, are likely on January 18 over south Tamil Nadu coastal areas, the Gulf of Mannar and the Comorin Sea.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into these sea areas during the period in view of safety concerns.
