A low-pressure system over the southwest Bay of Bengal near Sri Lanka has strengthened and is moving toward Tamil Nadu, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Chennai to issue an Orange Alert. Seven districts are expected to receive extremely heavy rainfall on Monday.
The weather disturbance, which formed on Sunday, remains in the same region and is likely to shift west-northwestward over the next 24 hours. This movement is expected to bring widespread rain to both coastal and interior areas of the state.
In the last 24 hours leading up to Monday morning, Thirparappu in Kanyakumari district reported the highest rainfall at 6 cm. Sembanarkoil in Mayiladuthurai district received 4 cm, followed by Parangipettai in Cuddalore district with 3 cm.
IMD forecasts indicate thunderstorms accompanied by light to moderate rain across several districts through Monday. On Tuesday, similar weather conditions are likely in the southern and northern parts of Tamil Nadu, with thunder and lightning also expected.
The following districts have been placed under Orange Alert for the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall on Monday:
Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Karaikal.
Residents in these areas are urged to remain cautious, avoid flooded zones, and follow safety instructions from local authorities.
Additionally, heavy rain is forecast today for districts including Cuddalore, Villupuram, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, and Puducherry. On Tuesday, southern districts like Sivaganga, Virudhunagar, Tenkasi, and Theni are also likely to see intense spells of rain.
Chennai is expected to experience cloudy skies throughout Monday, with several parts of the city facing heavy to very heavy rain at times. Municipal teams are on standby to handle flooding, and residents are advised to stay indoors during peak rainfall hours.
As the northeast monsoon remains active, the IMD is closely tracking the evolving weather system. Authorities have recommended that the public stay informed through official updates and take precautionary measures.
