The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted the return of rainfall to Chennai and its suburbs by the middle of next week, as another low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is expected to approach the Tamil Nadu coast. This system is likely to trigger widespread rain across several parts of the state.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Chennai and surrounding areas on Saturday, predicting light to moderate rain. The skies are expected to remain partly cloudy during the day, with similar weather conditions continuing on Sunday. The intensity of rainfall is likely to increase from December 16, culminating in heavy rainfall for districts like Chengalpet on December 17. On December 18, as many as 12 districts, including Chengalpet and Kancheepuram, are expected to receive heavy downpours.
In recent weeks, Chennai has been grappling with incessant rains caused by a low-pressure system near Sri Lanka over the southwest Bay of Bengal. The heavy downpours led to widespread waterlogging and disrupted normal life. IMD officials noted that this system is expected to weaken within the next 12 hours, offering temporary relief before the new system takes shape.
Meanwhile, northern India continues to reel under severe cold wave conditions. The IMD has issued alerts for Punjab, with cold wave conditions prevailing on Saturday and isolated areas likely to be affected on Sunday. Western districts of West Bengal are also bracing for a cold wave, which is expected to last until Sunday.
Rajasthan remains the worst hit, with sub-zero temperatures recorded in Fatehpur and extreme cold reported across northern regions, particularly the Shekhawati area. The IMD predicts that minimum temperatures in the northern belt could dip further to 2-6°C in the coming days, with dry weather likely to persist.
As the northeast monsoon continues to dominate southern India and cold waves intensify in the north, residents are advised to take necessary precautions. The IMD has urged the public to stay updated on weather advisories and prepare for the changing conditions.