Northeast monsoon likely to be normal in Tamil Nadu, says IMD

Sudden rain lashed parts of vellore on Wednesday. | Photo Credit: C. Venkatachalapathy

The much-awaited Northeast monsoon, which accounts for a substantial share of Tamil Nadu’s annual rainfall, is likely to be normal this year, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Northeast monsoon has assumed greater significance this year, coming on the heels of a deficit southwest monsoon rainfall.

The State usually receives an average of 44 cm during the NE monsoon. While south and coastal Tamil Nadu are likely to receive normal to above normal rainfall, north interior districts are predicted to receive below normal during the ensuing monsoon. Conditions are favourable for the onset of the monsoon from October third week, said IMD Director-General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra during a virtual press briefing on Wednesday.

Many parts of the State may experience normal to above normal rainfall in October except parts of north Tamil Nadu that may receive below average rainfall. The State may have to brace for above normal maximum and minimum temperatures in October too.