IMD forecasts new low-pressure system over the southeast Bay of Bengal around November 22 with potential cyclone formation
Yellow and orange alerts issued for coastal districts; heavy rainfall 6-12 cm expected over Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpet districts
Schools closed in Chennai, and Chengalpet, Tiruvallur as a precautionary measure; temperatures dip to 24-27°C, three degrees below normal
Marine warnings active with wind speeds of 35-55 km/h; fishermen advised against sea ventures; waterlogging and traffic disruptions expected
Tamil Nadu is bracing for intensified rainfall activity through the weekend as the India Meteorological Department forecasts the formation of a new low-pressure system over the southeast Bay of Bengal around November 22. This weather system is expected to move west-northwestward and potentially intensify into a cyclonic circulation, bringing widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall across coastal and delta districts. The IMD has issued yellow and orange alerts for multiple districts from November 19-23, warning of heavy rainfall measuring 6-12 centimeters within 24 hours over Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpet, Mayiladuthurai, Cuddalore, Villuppuram, Nagapattinam, and Ariyalur districts. Weather experts and meteorological bloggers indicate the strong possibility of cyclone formation around November 22-23, though official confirmation awaits further atmospheric developments and system strengthening patterns. Schools in Chennai, Chengalpet, and Tiruvallur have been declared closed as precautionary measures to ensure student safety during anticipated heavy downpours and potential waterlogging scenarios.
Current Weather Conditions and Rainfall Distribution
Light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and lightning continues across Tamil Nadu on November 19, affecting multiple districts including Ariyalur, Cuddalore, Kanniyakumari, Karur, Madurai, Perambalur, Pudukkottai, Ranipet, Thanjavur, Tirunelveli, Tiruvannamalai, and Puducherry regions. Chennai experiences light rainfall with temperatures dipping to 24-27 degrees Celsius, which is three degrees below normal seasonal averages for mid-November. Southern districts including Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Sivaganga, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, and Theni face heavy rainfall warnings through mid-week. Northeastern monsoon rainfall since October 1 remains below normal, with Chennai recording 39 centimeters (27 percent deficit), Kancheepuram 33 centimeters (10 percent deficit), and Chengalpet 26 centimeters (41 percent deficit), though Tiruvallur shows a seven percent surplus at 43 centimeters.
Weekend Outlook and Safety Advisories
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated across coastal districts during November 22-23, coinciding with the approaching low-pressure system's landfall trajectory. The IMD warns of waterlogging, traffic disruptions, slippery roads, and reduced visibility during intense rainfall spells. Marine warnings remain active with rough sea conditions expected, wind speeds reaching 35-55 kilometers per hour over Gulf of Mannar and Kanyakumari coast. Fishermen are strongly advised against venturing into the sea until conditions stabilize completely. Residents should avoid waterlogged areas, postpone non-essential travel during peak rainfall hours, and remain alert for falling tree branches or damaged power lines.
