New Delhi, November 16, 2025 – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a cautionary note for travelers and residents in South India, forecasting a spell of disruptive weather through November 18, characterized by widespread showers, thunderstorms with lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph. The alert, triggered by a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, primarily targets Tamil Nadu, Kerala, coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Rayalaseema regions, urging commuters to monitor local advisories and adjust transport plans amid potential disruptions to flights, trains, and roadways.
In its latest bulletin issued Saturday morning, the IMD predicts light to moderate rainfall at most places across Tamil Nadu from November 16 to 18, with isolated very heavy downpours (over 64.5 mm in 24 hours) very likely on the 16th and 17th. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are expected to lash the state daily until the 18th, potentially leading to waterlogging in urban centers like Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai. "Expect intermittent heavy spells that could cause flash floods in low-lying areas; residents and travelers should avoid unnecessary outings during peak hours," warned IMD Director Mr. S. Balachandran during a virtual briefing.
Kerala and the union territory of Mahe face similar threats, with heavy rainfall very likely at isolated pockets on November 17, alongside thunderstorms on the 17th and 18th. Coastal districts such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Ernakulam could see gusty winds exacerbating rough seas, prompting the Indian Coast Guard to issue advisories for fishermen to stay ashore. In Rayalaseema and south coastal Andhra Pradesh—including areas like Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Nellore—isolated very heavy rain is forecast for the 17th, with thunderstorms and winds over coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam on the same day.
The weather system, fueled by a low-pressure area intensifying over the southeast Arabian Sea, marks an extension of the Northeast Monsoon's vigor, which has already dumped 20-30% above-normal rainfall in Tamil Nadu this season. Travel impacts are already evident: Southern Railway reported delays on the Chennai-Kochi route due to track inundation early Saturday, while Kochi International Airport issued a yellow alert for crosswinds affecting takeoffs and landings. Bus operators in Andhra Pradesh's coastal belt have scaled back services on flood-prone highways, and the Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has activated 24/7 helplines for stranded motorists.
"With Diwali festivities winding down and weekend getaways peaking, this is a timely reminder to pack rain gear and check apps like IMD's 'Mausam' for real-time updates," advised travel expert Ms. Priya Rao of MakeMyTrip. The platform has seen a 15% uptick in weather-related refund queries for South India routes since Friday. Aviation authorities at Bengaluru and Hyderabad airports remain vigilant, though no widespread cancellations are reported yet.
The IMD has classified the alert as "yellow" for most areas—indicating "be aware"—but upgraded to "orange" (be prepared) for isolated heavy rain zones in interior Tamil Nadu and Rayalaseema. Conditions are expected to ease by November 19, with clearer skies ushering in drier weather. For now, South India's iconic beaches and hill stations may trade sun-soaked views for misty downpours, but safety first: Travelers, keep those umbrellas handy and eyes on the forecast.
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