Chennai Rainfall Trends: A Year-on-Year Comparison (Nov 2023 vs 2024)
Chennai and several parts of Tamil Nadu experienced heavy to extremely heavy rainfall events during November 2024, triggered by multiple low-pressure systems and cyclonic activity over the Bay of Bengal. Many localities in and around Chennai recorded isolated rainfall between 10 mm and 30 mm, while certain weather stations reported extremely heavy spells exceeding 200 mm in a single day.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), November 2024 featured intense but short-lived rain events, with rainfall concentration mainly over coastal districts. However, despite these heavy downpours, the overall rainfall ended below the long-period average, with India recording a 55% deficit for the month, averaging just 13.5 mm of rain nationally.
In contrast, November 2023 witnessed above-normal rainfall, particularly in Chennai — the city’s wettest month of the year, which typically receives around 370 mm of rainfall. IMD reports indicated a highly active northeast monsoon and frequent cyclonic formations, resulting in sustained rainfall across Tamil Nadu.
Rainfall Comparison – November 2023 vs 2024
| Year | Chennai Rainfall (Nov) | Tamil Nadu Rainfall (Nov) | Notable Events |
| 2024 | Intense short spells, up to 200+ mm/day at some stations | Heavy to extremely heavy rain in parts; overall deficit | Multiple cyclonic systems, low-pressure areas, local flooding |
| 2023 | Above-normal; around 370 mm for the month | Active Northeast Monsoon; above-normal rainfall statewide | Frequent rain spells and cyclonic influence |
