Chennai has recorded its highest rainfall for the month of June in the past two decades, with Nungambakkam receiving 22.5 cm of rain so far, compared to its monthly average of 6 cm. The previous high was 21 cm in June 2023, but the all-time record remains 70 cm, set in June 1996 due to a cyclonic storm.Meenambakkam has also seen significant rainfall this month, recording 27.4 cm against its average of 7 cm. The highest June rainfall for Meenambakkam was 41 cm in 1996. According to officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Chennai may continue to experience evening thunderstorms until Friday, potentially making this one of the wettest Junes in the past six decades.
The IMD predicts that rainfall will persist in some parts of the state until July 2, helping to maintain near-normal day temperatures. Parts of the Western Ghats are expected to receive heavy rain on Thursday.
Weather officials attribute the excess rainfall to weather systems over the region and convective thunderstorms during the southwest monsoon. Additionally, the convergence of strong westerlies has triggered significant rainfall in the Western Ghats this week.
This surge in rainfall is expected to benefit Chennai and surrounding areas by replenishing water resources and easing the typical summer heat. However, it also underscores the need for effective water management and infrastructure to handle such unexpected weather patterns.