Rare low-pressure area may form over Bay of Bengal; light rain possible in Tamil Nadu

In a rare February event, a low-pressure area is expected to form over the Bay of Bengal around Sunday. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) is monitoring the possibility of rainfall in parts of Tamil Nadu on February 18 and 19.

According to RMC, an upper air circulation over persists east of the Equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining the Southeast Bay of Bengal. This is likely to develop into a low-pressure area over the same region by Sunday. Officials of the RMC noted that weather models are being monitored for the possibility of light rainfall over Tamil Nadu. As of now, the Department has predicted light showers at isolated places over T.N., Puducherry and Karaikal.

With dry weather conditions expected to prevail over the State till Tuesday, shallow to moderate fog or mist is likely to prevail over districts, including Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur, Ranipet, Erode, Perambalur and Vellore till February 18.

Officials of the RMC said such foggy conditions are extending till February, particularly in recent years, when the Northeast monsoon has spilled over till January like this year. Noting it was rare for a low-pressure area to form over Bay of Bengal during February, B. Amudha, Head, RMC, said conducive sea surface temperature and favourable cyclonic circulation in the upper levels is likely to lead to the development of a low pressure area. However, it is too early to forecast the duration and intensity of rainfall over the region as multiple, complex weather factors influence clouding over the sea.

Officials said sea surface temperature is warmer only near the equatorial region, which is favourable for the formation of the weather system. However, it may not intensify further and its impact over Tamil Nadu can be assessed as it evolves.

The RMC has also forecast a gradual rise in maximum temperature in the State till February 17. On Friday, Erode recorded a maximum temperature of 36 degree Celsius, which was the highest in the State for the day. Places like Karur and Vellore too recorded maximum temperatures above normal by two degree Celsius. Many parts of the State may also experience near normal minimum temperatures till Tuesday.