The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh cyclone alert for the Bay of Bengal, predicting the formation of a low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal by November 23. This development is expected to be triggered by a cyclonic circulation near the Sumatra coast and the adjoining South Andaman Sea. As a result, the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are likely to experience heavy rainfall in the coming days.
The IMD’s forecast suggests that the system will move west-northwestward and may intensify into a depression over the central part of the south Bay of Bengal within the next two days. A cyclonic circulation has also been noted over the Comorin area and surrounding regions at lower tropospheric levels, further affecting weather patterns in the region.
Rainfall Predictions Across India
The IMD has predicted a series of rain events across several parts of the country over the next few days. Light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by isolated thunderstorms and lightning, is expected over Lakshadweep on November 21, and over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal on November 21 and 25. Kerala and Mahe are likely to experience similar conditions on November 25.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands will witness light to moderate rainfall at many places throughout the week. Additionally, the northeastern states of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall at isolated locations on November 21 and 22.
In Tamil Nadu, the IMD has forecast isolated very heavy rainfall on November 21 and 26, especially in the southern regions. Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are also likely to experience heavy rains on November 26 and 27. Heavy rainfall is expected over Nicobar Islands between November 21 and 24, and over Kerala and Mahe on November 21, 26, and 27.
Other areas, including south Tamil Nadu on November 25 and 27, as well as Rayalaseema on November 26 and 27, may also see isolated heavy rainfall.
Severe Flooding in Tamil Nadu
Ongoing heavy rainfall has continued to impact parts of Tamil Nadu, resulting in severe flooding and waterlogging in residential areas. In Thoothukudi, neighborhoods such as Rajagopal Nagar, Pushpa Nagar, Raju Nagar, and Postal Telegram Colony have experienced significant waterlogging, with several houses submerged in rainwater. Visuals from the area depict extensive flooding.
Since the onset of the northeast monsoon in October, Tamil Nadu has seen widespread rainfall, particularly in the northern and delta regions, including Chennai, Chengalpattu, and Kanchipuram. The delta districts of Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Mayiladuthurai have been heavily affected, with waterlogged roads and disruptions to daily life.
The weather department has forecast continued rainfall, along with thunderstorms and lightning, across several regions in the coming days. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and prepared for the continuing adverse weather conditions.
