Southwest Monsoon Likely to Begin Over Andaman Sea on May 16; Heavy Rain Forecast for Tamil Nadu Districts
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has announced that conditions are becoming favourable for the onset of the southwest monsoon over parts of the south Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Sea and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands around May 16.
The weather department also forecast widespread rainfall activity across several districts of Tamil Nadu due to the influence of a deep depression prevailing over the southwest and adjoining west-central Bay of Bengal.
Rainfall Expected Across Tamil Nadu
According to the latest weather bulletin:
- On May 14, light to moderate rainfall is likely over Delta districts and Western Ghats regions.
- On May 15 and 16, rainfall is expected in south Tamil Nadu coastal districts and Western Ghats districts.
- On May 17, moderate rainfall is likely over south Tamil Nadu and hill regions.
Heavy Rain Warning for Several Districts
The RMC has issued heavy rainfall alerts with thunderstorms and lightning for the following districts:
May 14 – The Nilgiris
May 15 – Coimbatore and The Nilgiris
May 16 – Theni
May 17 – The Nilgiris
May 18 and 19 – The Nilgiris, Theni and Dindigul
Pre-Monsoon Showers to Bring Relief
Meteorologists said the current rainfall activity is mainly due to pre-monsoon weather conditions. The showers are expected to bring temporary relief from rising summer temperatures across Tamil Nadu.
Southwest Monsoon Progress Begins
The onset of the southwest monsoon over the Andaman region is considered the first major phase of India’s monsoon season. The monsoon usually advances gradually towards Kerala before spreading across the rest of the country.
Weather experts said the monsoon appears to be progressing on schedule this year.
