IMD Predicts Dry Spell in Tamil Nadu Until Jan 21

India's weather authority has confirmed the northeast monsoon's retreat from Tamil Nadu and adjacent areas like Puducherry and Karaikal, signaling the close of the region's key wet phase.

Dry weather is set to persist through January 21 in these territories. Watch for morning fog at select places, which might hamper visibility in valleys and interior zones.

No major dips in minimum temperatures are expected, but cooler-than-normal nights could usher in a subtle wintery feel at dawn and dusk.

A weather pattern change looms from January 23 to 25, with scattered light-to-moderate rains possibly dotting parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. This intermittent precipitation may ease the prolonged dryness elsewhere.

Hill stations receive focused warnings: Expect fog in Nilgiris district and Kodaikanal in Dindigul tonight and into tomorrow morning. Local drivers and dwellers should prioritize safety amid poor sightlines.

Chennai forecasts partly cloudy days with morning haze possible. Temperatures will hover with maxima around 30-31°C and minima 20-21°C.

Southwest Bay of Bengal sees rough seas for fishermen, with winds at 35-45 km/h and gusts to 55 km/h. IMD strongly recommends staying ashore today.

Residents are encouraged to track evolving conditions through IMD channels to navigate this transitional weather phase effectively.