Zillar Barta Desk,Chennai : The Northeast Monsoon has officially set in over Tamil Nadu and other parts of southern peninsular India, bringing the prospect of widespread rainfall across the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a wet spell, with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall expected in several areas over the coming days.
According to the IMD, the Southwest Monsoon withdrew from the entire country on October 15, marking the beginning of Northeast Monsoon rainfall activity over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, south interior Karnataka, Kerala and Mahe. The weather department expects rainfall to continue across several parts of southern India until October 21. <Cite refs={["turn296963search0","turn296963search15"]}/>
The onset of the Northeast Monsoon has already brought showers to Chennai and its surrounding areas. While some parts of the city experienced light rainfall, several suburban locations recorded moderate to heavy showers.
The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of the Western Ghats and adjoining districts. An orange alert has been issued for six districts for Friday, October 16, with the possibility of rainfall reaching 12–20 centimetres in 24 hours in isolated locations. Several other districts are also expected to receive heavy rainfall. <Cite refs={["turn296963news17","turn296963news16"]}/>
Chennai and neighbouring districts, including Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu and Kancheepuram, may also experience further rainfall over the weekend. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds could accompany some of the showers.
The regional meteorological centre has indicated that rainfall distribution could vary considerably across Tamil Nadu during the season. Southern districts may receive normal to above-normal rainfall, while some northern districts could experience below-normal rainfall. Coastal districts are expected to receive rainfall within the normal range.
However, the overall seasonal outlook remains normal, according to the regional weather department. The distribution and intensity of rainfall will depend on prevailing atmospheric conditions and the movement of weather systems. <Cite refs={["turn296963news17","turn296963search10"]}/>
The Northeast Monsoon, which generally occurs between October and December, is crucial for Tamil Nadu because it contributes a substantial share of the state's annual rainfall. The rains help replenish reservoirs, lakes and groundwater resources while supporting agricultural activities.
The arrival of the monsoon is particularly significant this year after the Southwest Monsoon ended with a rainfall deficit across India. Timely rainfall could help improve water availability and support farming in rain-dependent areas.
At the same time, intense downpours may cause waterlogging, traffic disruption and localised flooding in vulnerable locations. Residents are advised to monitor official weather bulletins, exercise caution during thunderstorms and follow local administration advisories.
With the Northeast Monsoon now underway, Tamil Nadu and neighbouring southern states are preparing for an active spell of rain. The coming days will be important in determining how rainfall is distributed across the region and whether southern districts receive the anticipated above-normal precipitation.
