The India Meteorological Department has forecast moderate rain, thunderstorms and winds of 30-40kmph in Chennai and neighbouring districts, with isolated heavy rain likely in parts of Tamil Nadu during the Diwali weekend.
Nineteen districts, including Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu, may receive moderate rain on Sunday, while eight delta and southern districts are likely to record heavy rain at isolated places, according to the IMD. The forecast covers a period when rain could affect Diwali celebrations and outdoor activity across the region.
An IMD meteorologist attributed the upcoming spells to the return of easterly waves during the northeast monsoon. These weather disturbances move westward within the easterly winds and carry moisture from the Bay of Bengal towards the Tamil Nadu coast. When moist winds converge, air rises, cools and condenses, leading to the formation of rain-bearing clouds.
The IMD said Chennai and its neighbouring districts could receive isolated rain spells over the next few days. It added that much of the heavy rainfall may remain restricted to a few delta and southern districts. The department also said there was a possibility of weather systems forming over the Bay of Bengal during the second half of November.
For Saturday, Chennai and its suburbs may receive light rain, with thunderstorms and lightning possible in some areas. Partly cloudy skies are expected to keep temperatures between 24°C and 25°C in the minimum range and 30°C and 31°C during the day.
The forecast follows sharp, short rain spells recorded across several parts of Chennai on Friday after a sunny day. Nungambakkam recorded 2.6mm of rain and Meenambakkam received 1.9mm. Ennore Port recorded 3mm, while ACS Medical College received 9.5mm, Anna University 8.5mm and Puzhal 7.5mm.
Weather blogger Pradeep John described the expected pattern in an online update as sunny conditions followed by sudden spells of rain over the next two days. The IMD official said successive easterly waves could bring widespread spells of rain, although the heaviest rainfall was expected to be concentrated in selected delta and southern districts.
The immediate forecast remains for isolated rain in Chennai and neighbouring districts, with residents and local authorities monitoring thunderstorm activity, gusty winds and the possibility of further weather systems developing over the Bay of Bengal.
