EnvironmentThursday, 1 October 2026·The Hindu - Tamil Nadu
IMD says Northeast monsoon may be normal in Tamil Nadu; onset likely in October third week
IMD said Tamil Nadu’s 2026 Northeast monsoon is likely to be normal, with onset expected in the October third week.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In October 2026, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Tamil Nadu’s Northeast monsoon is likely to be normal, with onset conditions favourable in the third week of October and the State’s seasonal average rainfall placed at 44 cm.
Key specifics
- Tamil Nadu receives an average of 44 cm during the Northeast monsoon.
- IMD Director-General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said onset conditions are favourable from the October third week.
- The State recorded a 20% deficit in the Southwest monsoon, which ended on September 30.
- South and coastal Tamil Nadu are likely to get normal to above-normal rainfall, while north interior districts may get below-normal rainfall.
- El Niño conditions and a neutral Indian Ocean Dipole were cited as key weather factors for the 2026 monsoon.
Exam lens
Environment and climate MCQ focus: Northeast monsoon, 44 cm average rainfall, 20% southwest monsoon deficit, El Niño, Indian Ocean Dipole. TNPSC may ask which districts are likely to receive below-normal rainfall or the month of monsoon onset.