Chennai: Several districts across Tamil Nadu experienced scorching temperatures yesterday, with Erode, Karur, Vellore, and Salem recording a blistering 101 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 38.3°C). Tiruttani, Madurai, and Chennai followed closely at 100°F (37.7°C), while most other areas recorded temperatures around 98°F (36.6°C), according to weather observations.
Tirunelveli and Coimbatore districts were particularly affected, with temperatures soaring 3 degrees Celsius above normal levels.
Isolated Rain Relief in Western Ghats
Amidst the prevailing heat, the Chennai Meteorological Department has issued a forecast of isolated light rainfall in parts of the Western Ghats. An atmospheric circulation extending from South Interior Karnataka to Telangana is expected to bring light rain to one or two places in the Nilgiris and Coimbatore districts today and tomorrow.
On March 8, light rain may occur at isolated places in the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, and South Tamil Nadu districts. Further, on March 9, light rain is expected at one or two places in the Western Ghats districts, coastal districts of Tamil Nadu, as well as in Puducherry and Karaikal areas.
Other parts of the state are likely to experience dry weather conditions.
Chennai Weather Forecast
In Chennai and its suburbs, the sky will remain partly cloudy today. Maximum temperatures are expected to hover around 33-34°C, while minimum temperatures may settle around 23-24°C.
Summer Heat Outlook
The summer season in Tamil Nadu officially runs from March 1 to May 31. According to meteorologists, this year’s summer heat is expected to be more intense than last year. Coastal areas including Kodiyakarai, Nagapattinam, Rameswaram, Thoothukudi, Tiruchendur, Kulasekarapattinam, and Uvari will experience moderate heat due to the entry of the eastern sea breeze into the state.
The entire state of Tamil Nadu will face scorching heat during April and May, with temperatures expected to rise significantly above normal levels. Tenkasi-based meteorologist Raja has indicated that although summer officially ends in May, the heat is likely to persist until August this year.