Chennai, July 9 (IANS) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rain accompanied by strong winds in the Nilgiris district on Thursday, while several other parts of Tamil Nadu are also expected to receive rainfall under the influence of a low-pressure trough extending from south Gujarat to central Kerala.

According to the IMD, the prevailing weather system is likely to trigger rain in isolated parts of Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry over the next few days.

The department has warned that the Nilgiris, a hilly district prone to rain-related incidents during the southwest monsoon, is likely to experience intense spells of rain along with gusty winds.

The weather office said other districts situated along the Western Ghats are also expected to receive moderate rainfall accompanied by strong winds on Wednesday and Thursday.

Authorities have advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious, particularly in regions susceptible to landslides, falling trees and waterlogging.

The southwest monsoon has remained active over parts of southern India, and the trough stretching from south Gujarat to central Kerala is expected to enhance moisture inflow over the region, resulting in widespread cloud formation and intermittent showers across several districts.

In Chennai, the IMD has predicted generally cloudy skies throughout the day, with the possibility of light rain in a few areas of the city. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain relatively moderate due to increased cloud cover, while humidity levels are likely to remain high.

Weather officials said rainfall activity may continue intermittently in parts of northern and western Tamil Nadu over the coming days, though widespread heavy rain is not expected outside the hilly districts.

Meanwhile, the IMD has issued a marine weather warning for fishermen operating in the Andaman Sea. Strong winds with speeds of up to 55 kmph are likely to prevail over the region from July 10 to July 12.

Fishermen have been advised to exercise caution while venturing into the sea during this period and to closely follow weather bulletins issued by the authorities.

The IMD said the marine conditions could become rough due to the strengthening winds and urged those engaged in fishing activities to plan their voyages accordingly. The weather department said it would continue to monitor the evolving weather system and issue further advisories if conditions change.

–IANS

aal/dpb