Heavy rainfall likely to return over T.N.’s north coastal and delta districts from August 2

Rainfall will return over the State after a brief hiatus, from August 2. Heavy rainfall is set to lash some north coastal and delta districts till August 6 and is likely to bring down the sizzling temperature, particularly in interior places.

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has forecast an increase in rainfall activity in the State from August 2. Seven districts, including Thanjavur, Cuddalore, and Pudukottai, are set to receive heavy rainfall up to 12.4 cm on August 2. A similar pattern of heavy rainfall may continue in coastal and delta regions. On Sunday, Chengalpattu and Kancheepuram districts too have chances of receiving heavy rainfall.

Officials of the RMC said the change in westerly winds’ speed would trigger rainfall over the region. Moreover, an east-west trough is expected to form and bring heavy rainfall in the north coastal and delta region.

On Thursday, several places in the State experienced searing heat with above-normal temperatures. Madurai Airport recorded 41.3 degree Celsius, which is the hottest temperature recorded in the State on that day.

A few places, including Valparai, Kodaikanal, and Puzhal in Chennai recorded light rainfall on Thursday. The RMC expects rainfall to continue over Tamil Nadu till August second-week.

B. Amudha, Head (Additional in charge), RMC, said it was typical to experience dry and hot spells during Southwest monsoon. Cloud cover is set to increase and bring down the searing heat. Chennai has chances of thunderstorms on Friday.

July has ended with 10.4 cm of rainfall in Tamil Nadu against its seasonal average for the period of 12 cm. The RMC still considers this as near normal rainfall.

In its outlook for August, India Meteorological Department has forecast above-normal rainfall over most parts of the State. Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are expected to receive 9 cm of rainfall in August.

Many places in Tamil Nadu may also have to brace for a warmer August with maximum temperature forecast to remain above normal.