A new low-pressure area has formed over the Bay of Bengal, and it is expected to intensify and move toward the Tamil Nadu coast over the next two days, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC). This weather system is likely to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall to several coastal districts, including Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, and Chengalpattu, until December 19.
The low-pressure area, which developed on December 16 in the central part of the south Bay of Bengal, is being influenced by an upper air cyclonic circulation over the southeast Bay. This circulation extends up to 3.1 kilometers above sea level and is predicted to strengthen further.
As the system moves west-northwestward, it will impact coastal Tamil Nadu with significant rainfall.
Rainfall Warnings
- December 17: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecasted for Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Cuddalore, Villupuram, Thiruvarur, and Nagapattinam.
- December 18: An orange alert has been issued for Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Cuddalore, and Villupuram districts. Heavy rainfall is also expected in Ranipet, Thiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, Vellore, Ariyalur, and Mayiladuthurai.
The RMC has issued an orange alert for several districts, warning of very heavy rainfall on December 17. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay vigilant, as low-lying regions may face waterlogging. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged people to follow weather updates and take necessary precautions.
This rainfall is attributed to an atmospheric circulation over the South Andaman Sea, which continues to influence weather patterns across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Moderate rainfall is expected in these regions on December 16 as the system strengthens.
Stay tuned for further updates as the low-pressure area evolves over the Bay of Bengal.