Met banks on NE monsoon revival

Chennai: Despite three cyclones hitting the east coast in November, the state still languishes in the deficit rainfall bracket this northeast monsoon season. With another system looming large near southern TN, weathermen are hopeful of a partial resurgence of the monsoon in Tamil Nadu. According to IMD statistics, the state has received only 24.5 cm mean rainfall, compared to a normal of 35.8 cm for the period from October 1 to December 1.

“As of today, we have 32 per cent (11 cm) total rainfall deficiency in Tamil Nadu. But we can expect some minor revival of the monsoon, as a set of easterly trough has turned into a low pressure. It is too early to call it a depression, but the state will receive rainfall for the next four days,” said Dr Y.E.A. Raj, deputy director general of meteorology, Regional Meteorological Centre, Chennai.

He added that monsoon revival had already started in the state with 32 per cent stations receiving rains on Saturday. Tiruchendur in Thoothukudi district recorded a maximum rainfall of 11 cm for the 24-hour period ended 8.30 am on Sunday, followed by Ramanathapuram at 6 cm. On Sunday, Nungamabakkam received 1 cm rain, while Meenambakkam registered less than 1 cm rainfall.

According to Met officials, it needs to be seen whether the current low pressure system formed in the bay near south coastal Tamil Nadu would reach the interior parts of the state or bring rainfall only to the coastal districts. “Apart from the southern districts, heavy rains are possible in Tirunelveli, Madurai and Tiruchy. Thanjavur and Nagapattinam districts will also receive good rainfall,” Met officials added.

So far, only nine districts, namely Coim­batore, Dh­ar­mapuri, Kan­­ya­kumari, Krish­nagiri, Namakkal, Nilgiris, Perambalur, Tiru­n­elveli and Tiruv­annamalai have recorded normal rainfall for this season. All the remaining districts, including Chennai, are in the deficient category. Chennai district has so far registered only 37 cm rainfall, compared to a normal of 61 cm.