Low-pressure system over Bay of Bengal gathers strength; T.N. awaits clarity on its track - The HinduUpdated - November 13, 2026 09:13 pm IST - CHENNAIRMC said the current weather model predictions do not indicate movement towards Tamil Nadu or significant influence of rainfall over the State. (File photo) | Photo Credit: VELANKANNI RAJ BThe Northeast monsoon’s next major weather system is brewing over the Bay of Bengal and showing signs of intensifying into a cyclonic storm by November 16. However, Tamil Nadu may have to wait for a few more days to get greater clarity on the system’s trajectory and its possible influence of the State’s rainfall.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced the formation of a low-pressure area over southeast Bay of Bengal on Friday. It is likely to move northwestwards and gradually concentrate into a depression on Monday. It is likely to further strengthen as a cyclonic storm over the central Bay of Bengal around Tuesday evening.While the prospect of a third cyclone taking shape over the Bay during this season has drawn attention, current weather model predictions do not indicate its movement towards Tamil Nadu. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has currently predicted light to moderate rainfall over south Tamil Nadu and western ghats districts till November 19. Dry weather is likely to prevail over other parts of the State.Once the system gathers strength as a cyclonic storm, it may be named as ‘Akvan’, a name suggested by Iran in the naming list of tropical cyclones forming over North Indian Ocean.V.R. Durai, Head, Regional Weather Forecasting Centre, RMC, said the current weather model predictions do not indicate movement towards Tamil Nadu or significant influence of rainfall over the State. Normally, systems that have a genesis over southeast Bay of Bengal have a tendency to move towards Andhra Pradesh.As the system consolidates over the Bay, evolving weather dynamics and changes in its trajectory over the next few days would determine whether it could alter the course of the monsoon in T.N. and bring significant rainfall, he said.The RMC is expected to update its forecast based on the system’s movement. It has forecast near normal temperatures over the State till November 17. Chennai is likely to experience light rains in some areas on Saturday.Published - November 13, 2026 08:06 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }