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Published 13:51 IST, December 17th 2023

Heavy rain batters Tamil Nadu, more showers likely, fishermen advised not to venture into sea

IMD has predicted more showers for the state. Chennai is bracing for generally cloudy conditions over the next 24 hours, with moderate rain likely in some areas

Reported by: Manisha Roy
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rains lash parts of Tamil Nadu
IMD has predicted more showers for parts of Tamil Nadu on December 18 and 19. (File photo) | Image: ANI

Chennai: Southern Tamil Nadu districts, including Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Kanyakumari, and Ramanathapuram, have been battered by heavy rains since Sunday morning, causing disruptions in daily life. Tuticorin and Tenkasi are particularly affected. The Meteorological Department has issued warnings of cyclonic winds along the eastern coastal areas of Tamil Nadu and the Gulf of Mannar.

Several trees were uprooted and vehicles got damaged in Thoothukudi following heavy rain and strong winds. Owing to heavy rain, Thoothukudi District Collector declared a holiday for schools and colleges for December 18.

More showers predicted in Tamil Nadu

IMD has predicted more showers for the state on December 18 and 19. According to the IMD forecast, heavy rain is expected in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Pudukottai, and Thanjavur districts on December 18. Whereas Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Ramanathapuram, Pudukottai, and Thanjavur districts are likely to receive heavy rain on December 19. On the same day, thunderstorms and lightning are predicted in various places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal.

Squally weather, with wind speeds ranging from 40-45 kmph to 55 kmph, was predicted over the southwest Bay of Bengal, Sri Lanka-Tamil Nadu coasts, Gulf of Mannar, Comorin area, Kerala coast, and Lakshadweep area from December 15 to 18.

In response to the IMD warning, fishermen from Nagapattinam district are avoiding the sea, securing their boats and fishing nets onshore. Over 650 boats and 3,300 fiber boats are safely docked in more than 25 Fishermen's Hamlet villages.

Chennai is bracing for generally cloudy conditions over the next 24 hours, with moderate rain likely in some areas. Fishermen in the region are advised to refrain from venturing into the sea, prioritizing safety amidst the adverse weather conditions.

Updated 18:41 IST, December 17th 2023