Tamil Nadu likely to get more intense spells in September

CHENNAI: While Tamil Nadu recorded the third highest rainfall in 122 years, the month of September is likely to get more intense spells as the Southwest monsoon has been active over the State. The prediction for these months will be normal to slightly above normal, which will receive more rainfall than a normal figure.

The State received 17 cm of rainfall which is 93 per cent higher than the normal data for August. In 1906, the surplus rain was 112 per cent, and the excess rainfall in 1909 was 127 per cent in Tamil Nadu. Usually, August receives 9 cm average rainfall, whereas it gets intense spells in September (12 cm).

P Senthamarai Kannan, Scientist E, Regional Meteorological Center (RMC), Chennai said, "Generally, the highest rainfall would be recorded in September. Even this year, the Met has predicted the more intense showers over the State in September . And it is likely to receive excess rainfall compared to last month."

As the Southwest monsoon is active over Tamil Nadu, at least 19 districts - the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Tirupattur, Theni, Dindigul, Erode, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Namakkal, Tirupur, Karur, Madurai, Tiruchy, Vellore, Ranipet, Tiruvannamalai, Kallakurichi, and Tenkasi is expected to get heavy rain till Tuesday (September 6).

Commenting on the onset of Northeast monsoon in the State, the official stated, "Based on the withdrawal of Southwest monsoon, the seasonal rainfall for Tamil Nadu will be declared. Also, it has a few conditions before the Northeast monsoon commences such as wind direction. For instance, if it is predicted on October 1, it might start before or after the actual date."