Residents of Chennai ushered in the New Year under rainy skies, as unexpected showers drenched several parts of the city, with the northeast monsoon season officially extending into the month of January. The rainfall was particularly intense in northern neighbourhoods, leading to a wet start to 2025.
Rainfall Data and Meteorological Cause
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded significant precipitation across the city. Perambur received the highest rainfall at 11 centimetres, closely followed by Ennore which saw 10 centimetres. Other areas like Nungambakkam registered 0.2mm, West Tambaram 1.5mm, while Anna University and Puzhal each recorded 0.5mm of rain on Thursday.
Meteorologists attribute this weather activity to an upper-air cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal, near the Sri Lanka coast. This system is responsible for triggering the rainfall not just in Chennai but also in various parts of Tamil Nadu.
Forecast: More Rain, Then a Temperature Shift
According to the latest IMD bulletin, the city and its suburbs can expect light rainfall in some areas on Friday. There is also a possibility of early morning mist or haze, with a partly cloudy sky. Temperatures are likely to hover around a maximum of 30°C and a minimum of 23°C.
Private weather forecaster Skymet Weather, represented by chief meteorologist Mahesh Palawat, provided further insight. He indicated that the cyclonic circulation may bring scattered rainfall to coastal and some interior districts for the next 48 hours. However, a change is on the horizon.
"Rain activity may subside after that as winds shift to northerly, leading to a rise in daytime temperatures over the next two to three days and a drop in night temperatures," Palawat explained. This means Chennai could experience warmer days and cooler nights once the rain reduces.
Monsoon Extension and Localised Impact
A key takeaway from this event is the extension of the northeast monsoon, which is now expected to remain active at least through the first two weeks of January. This prolongation is directly linked to the persistent cyclonic circulation over the Bay.
Local weather bloggers noted a stark contrast in rainfall distribution within the city. While northern areas, including Perambur and Ennore, were lashed by heavy spells, the southern parts of Chennai remained largely dry, highlighting the localized nature of the showers.
As Chennai navigates this extended monsoon phase, residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather alerts and prepare for the predicted shift towards drier but more thermally variable conditions in the coming days.
