South T.N. likely to experience a wet Deepavali this year with heavy rain forecast till Nov. 8

South Tamil Nadu is expected to experience a wet Deepavali this year, with heavy rainfall forecast to continue until November 8, according to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC). The strengthening of easterlies and a cyclonic circulation have pushed the zone of intense rainfall towards the south of the state, with several districts expected to receive heavy showers during this period.

Cyclone Murasu is weakening into a low pressure area, allowing the Northeast monsoon to return to its active phase. Heaviest rainfall is anticipated in Theni, Dindigul, and Madurai districts on November 5, with the effects spreading to Thoothukudi and Sivaganga on November 6. North coastal districts are also likely to experience wet weather due to the strengthening of moist, easterly winds until November 8.

Light to moderate rainfall was reported in places like Salem, Ramanathapuram, Krishnagiri, Thanjavur, and Tirunelveli on Wednesday. An upper air cyclonic circulation over south Tamil Nadu and the surrounding area is expected to bring widespread rainfall, particularly over southern and delta districts until November 8. Heavy rainfall is expected to cover Thanjavur, Ramanathapuram, and Tiruvarur on November 8.

While some areas along the Western Ghats may see moderate rainfall this week, the wet spell is expected to keep maximum temperatures close to normal in most parts of the state until Sunday. Currently, Tamil Nadu's seasonal rainfall is 11% above the normal share of 20.2 cm since October 1, and officials believe the ongoing wet weather will further increase the rainfall surplus.