The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate rain with thunder, lightning and strong winds in parts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry from May 27 to May 30.
In its bulletin, the IMD said the highest rainfall recorded in the 24 hours up to Tuesday morning was 8 cm at Virinjipuram in Vellore district.
The department noted an atmospheric circulation over the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining areas, and another over the central west Bay of Bengal and nearby regions. Due to changes over the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, the onset of the southwest monsoon—expected to begin on Tuesday—may be delayed by a day or two.
The IMD also said the Kathiri heat period, considered the peak of summer, is set to end on Wednesday. However, from May 27 to May 30, temperatures across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry could still rise by up to 3°C above normal.
Meanwhile, as of Tuesday evening, 10 locations in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry reported intense heat. Chennai (Meenambakkam), Tiruttani and Vellore recorded 41.5°C (106°F) each.
