Chennai: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced that the crucial northeast monsoon, which brings the bulk of rainfall to Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and South Andhra Pradesh, is likely to commence between October 16 and 18. This forecast aligns with the anticipated withdrawal of the southwest monsoon from the rest of India around the same dates.
According to an official statement from the IMD, favourable atmospheric conditions, including winds blowing from the east or northeast, are expected to set the stage for the onset of the rainy season. The northeast monsoon season typically spans October, November, and December, though occasional spells can extend into February.
Northeast Monsoon May Dampen Diwali 2025 in Tamil Nadu, IMD Predicts Heavy Rain
The potential onset date places the monsoon’s arrival just days before the Diwali festival, which is celebrated on October 20th and 21st this year. This has raised concerns among the public and traders that rainfall could disrupt festivities and impact the firecracker business. A similar situation in 2011 saw heavy rains in Chennai during Diwali, and the prospect of a wet celebration has returned this year, suggesting that residents may need to prepare for a Diwali accompanied by rain.
Meanwhile, the Nilgiris district is already experiencing significant pre-monsoon weather activity. A heavy rain warning is in effect for the region, which has been witnessing overcast skies and intermittent heavy showers since yesterday. The district recorded a maximum of 13 cm of rainfall the previous night, with areas like Kotagiri, Aravenu, and Kaikkatti experiencing persistent rain for several hours. The downpour has led to a noticeable drop in temperature, bringing severe cold to various parts of the Nilgiris and adversely affecting plantation workers in the area.