Tamil Nadu is set for another spell of widespread rainfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a Yellow Alert for at least 11 districts due to an intensifying weather system over the Bay of Bengal. The capital city, Chennai, is also expected to experience on-and-off rains with intermittent intense spells until Tuesday, November 25, 2025.
The current weather activity is a result of the active Northeast Monsoon being influenced by an atmospheric circulation that is fostering the development of a low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal. This system is anticipated to move west-northwestwards and strengthen into a depression over the central south Bay of Bengal by Monday, November 24, 2025.
Heavy Rainfall Warning: The 11 Districts on Yellow Alert
The Yellow Alert signifies that residents should "Be Aware" of the changing weather conditions, with the likelihood of heavy rainfall at isolated places. The districts most prone to heavy downpours are primarily concentrated in the Delta and Southern coastal regions.
The 11 districts placed under the heavy rain warning on Saturday, November 22, 2025, include:
- Southern Districts: Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, and Ramanathapuram.
- Delta and Coastal Districts: Pudukkottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Cuddalore.
These areas are likely to see concentrated spells of heavy rain through the weekend, with some districts continuing the alert until Tuesday, November 25, 2025. The neighbouring Karaikal area of Puducherry is also expected to receive heavy showers.
Chennai's Intermittent Rain Spell
While the core of the heavy rainfall is focused on the southern and delta districts, Chennai and its adjoining areas (including Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpattu) will not be entirely spared.
- Forecast until Tuesday (November 25, 2025): The city will witness a pattern of light to moderate rain, with one or two spells of heavier showers accompanied by thunder and lightning.
- Outlook: The forecast indicates a 70% chance of rain on Monday, November 24, 2025, with conditions beginning to ease slightly by Tuesday. The weather in Chennai is expected to remain partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from a high of around 26 c to 28 c and a minimum of around 21 c to 22 c.
Safety Advisories and Precautions
In light of the continuous rain forecast and the strengthening weather system, authorities have issued several advisories:
- Fishermen Warning: Fishermen are strongly advised not to venture into the southeast and southwest Bay of Bengal, including the Gulf of Mannar and the adjoining Andaman Sea, as squally weather and strong winds are expected. Those already at sea are urged to return to the shore immediately.
- Public Safety: Residents in low-lying areas, especially in the Delta and coastal districts, should remain vigilant against waterlogging and localized flooding.
- Traffic Caution: Commuters in Chennai and other major cities are advised to exercise caution due to slippery roads and potential traffic snarls during intense spells of rain.
The IMD continues to monitor the low-pressure system closely and will issue further updates and alerts as the situation evolves.
