Chennai, Aug 22 (IANS) The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has forecast moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in the city and several neighbouring districts, as a weak low-pressure system persists in the lower atmospheric levels along the Tamil Nadu coast.
According to the latest weather bulletin, rainfall is likely in Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Ranipet districts until Sunday.
Several districts along the Western Ghats may also experience similar weather conditions during the period. In Chennai, the sky is expected to remain partly cloudy on Saturday.
Moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is likely in some parts of the city during the evening or night.
The maximum temperature is expected to range between 37 degree Celsius and 38 degree Celsius, while the minimum temperature could remain between 27 degree Celsius and 28 degree Celsius.
The weather department has also forecast heavy rain at one or two places in the hilly areas of Coimbatore and the Nilgiris districts on August 24 and 25.
Residents and travellers in these regions have been advised to remain alert, particularly in areas vulnerable to waterlogging or disruptions caused by intense spells of rain.
On August 26 and 27, moderate rainfall is likely at isolated places in districts situated along the Western Ghats.
Other parts of Tamil Nadu may experience comparatively dry or partly cloudy conditions, although localised rainfall cannot be ruled out.
Meanwhile, no significant change in maximum temperatures is expected across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal until Sunday. However, daytime temperatures may rise slightly over interior Tamil Nadu.
The maximum temperature at a few places in the State’s interior districts could remain two to three degrees Celsius above normal.
In the remaining parts of Tamil Nadu, as well as Puducherry and Karaikal, temperatures are expected to stay close to the seasonal average. The combination of high daytime temperatures and increased moisture could result in humid and uncomfortable weather, particularly in Chennai and the surrounding coastal districts.
The possibility of thunderstorms later in the day may offer temporary relief from the heat. Authorities have urged people to exercise caution during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees and stay away from exposed areas when lightning activity is intense.
Motorists have also been advised to drive carefully during sudden spells of rain and strong winds.
–IANS
aal/rad