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Chennai, Nov 22 (IANS) The Regional Meteorological Center (RMC) in Chennai on Saturday predicted heavy rain in 11 districts of Tamil Nadu as a developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal started intensifying.
According to the latest bulletin, an atmospheric circulation over the southern Andaman Sea has given rise to favorable conditions for the formation of a low pressure area over the southeastern Bay of Bengal later on Saturday.
The system is expected to move west-northwestwards and strengthen into a marked low in the next 48 hours.
It is also likely to intensify further as it continues its trajectory towards the Indian coast. In view of this developing system, RMC has predicted widespread rainfall over southern and delta districts.
Heavy rain is likely in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, Ramanathapuram, Pudukottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai and Cuddalore districts.
Heavy rain is also expected in Karaikal region of neighboring Puducherry. The weather office has further indicated that Chennai and surrounding areas will remain partly cloudy throughout the day.
Moderate rain with thunder and lightning may occur in isolated areas of the city during the evening or night.
Officials said the intensity of rainfall may increase over coastal areas and interior areas of south Tamil Nadu due to the influence of the circulation and the developing low pressure area.
Fishermen have been strongly advised not to venture into southeast and southwest Bay of Bengal, including the adjacent Andaman Sea, where rough sea conditions and strong winds are expected during the next two days.
The weather department warned that the sea could remain rough due to the possibility of strong winds arising from the intensifying system. Those already at sea have been urged to return to shore as soon as possible. With heavy rainfall likely to occur in many districts, officials have directed local administrations to remain alert, monitor water levels in low-lying and flood-prone areas and be prepared for any contingency related to flooding or traffic disruption.
As the weather system strengthens further, Tamil Nadu is expected to see more rainfall activity over the weekend, with forecasters closely monitoring its activity and intensity.
–IANS
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