Chennai, July 4 (IANS) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall in Coimbatore, the Nilgiris and Kanyakumari districts on Saturday, as a low-pressure area has formed over the northwestern Bay of Bengal and adjoining regions.

The weather system is expected to intensify further over the next two days, raising the likelihood of widespread rainfall across several parts of Tamil Nadu.

In a weather bulletin issued on Saturday, the IMD said the newly formed low-pressure area is likely to strengthen gradually, influencing weather conditions across the state.

The department has warned that the western and southern districts of Coimbatore, the Nilgiris and Kanyakumari are likely to receive heavy rainfall during the day, prompting authorities to remain vigilant for possible waterlogging, localized flooding and disruptions in vulnerable areas.

Apart from the heavy rain forecast for these three districts, the IMD has predicted moderate rainfall over north Tamil Nadu as well as the Union Territories of Puducherry and Karaikal.

The remaining parts of Tamil Nadu are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall, providing relief from the prevailing warm weather in many regions.

The weather department noted that the rainfall activity is being driven by the evolving low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, which is expected to become more organised over the next 48 hours.

While the system is not expected to directly make landfall in Tamil Nadu at this stage, its associated moisture and circulation are likely to enhance rainfall across the state.

The IMD has advised residents, particularly those living in low-lying and hilly regions, to remain updated on weather advisories and exercise caution during periods of intense rainfall.

Local administrations are also expected to monitor the situation closely and take precautionary measures wherever necessary.

Meanwhile, the department has said that maximum temperatures across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal are likely to remain slightly below normal on Saturday and Sunday owing to increased cloud cover and widespread rainfall activity.

The cooler daytime temperatures are expected to provide temporary relief from the recent spell of warm weather experienced in several parts of the state. The IMD said it would continue to closely monitor the progress of the low-pressure system and issue updated forecasts and warnings as the weather situation evolves over the coming days.

–IANS

aal/rad