The India Meteorological Department officially declared the withdrawal of the Northeast Monsoon from Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, and neighboring regions in South India, signaling the conclusion of the primary rainy season. Dry weather conditions are expected to persist in these areas from Monday until January 21, with the possibility of early morning fog or mist at isolated spots, potentially affecting visibility. Minimum temperatures are anticipated to remain relatively stable, while night temperatures may be slightly cooler, providing a refreshing change during mornings and evenings.
Looking ahead, the IMD forecasts a shift in weather patterns from January 23 to January 25, with light to moderate rainfall expected in some parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. However, most areas are likely to remain dry. These intermittent showers are predicted to offer brief respite from the prevailing dry spell. Specific warnings have been issued for hilly regions like the Nilgiris district and Kodaikanal hill ranges, where fog is expected during night and early morning hours, potentially affecting visibility.
For Chennai and its surroundings, partly cloudy skies are forecasted for the day, with light fog possible in the early morning. The maximum temperature in the city is expected to range between 30 to 31 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may vary from 20 to 21 degrees Celsius. Additionally, a marine warning has been issued for fishermen in the southwestern parts of the Bay of Bengal, cautioning them about strong winds with speeds of 35 to 45 kmph, gusting up to 55 kmph at times. Fishermen are advised to avoid venturing into these sea areas. The Weather Department emphasizes the importance of staying updated with official advisories for both the public and maritime communities.
