Dry conditions are anticipated in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal over the next four days as the Northeast monsoon is set to retreat from the region. The Regional Meteorological Centre has forecasted the withdrawal of the monsoon from these areas and adjoining parts of south India within the next 48 hours. Despite a lower atmospheric circulation over the Comorin Sea, widespread rainfall is not expected immediately.
From January 18 to January 20, dry weather is likely to persist across the state and neighboring regions. During this period, isolated places may experience light fog in the early morning hours, especially in inland and low-lying areas. Similar dry conditions are expected to continue on January 21 and January 22, with no significant rainfall activity predicted in most districts.
A slight change in weather is expected from January 23, with light to moderate rain possible at one or two places along coastal Tamil Nadu, including Puducherry and Karaikal, while interior districts are likely to remain dry. On January 24, isolated places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal may experience light to moderate rainfall, although widespread rain is not on the forecast.
Minimum temperatures are expected to remain near normal or slightly below normal between January 18 and January 20 across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. Day temperatures are also anticipated to be comfortable for this time of the year. Chennai and its suburbs are forecasted to have partly cloudy weather on January 18 and January 19, with light fog possible in some areas during the early morning hours.
The maximum temperature is projected to range between 30 to 31 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may hover around 19 to 20 degrees Celsius. Strong surface winds are likely to affect the south Tamil Nadu coastal areas, the Gulf of Mannar, and the Comorin Sea on January 18, with wind speeds of 35–45 kmph and gusts up to 55 kmph. Fishermen have been advised against venturing into these sea areas during this period. Overall, the upcoming days are expected to be mainly dry, with only brief and isolated rainfall towards the end of the week.
