The scorching heat in Chennai intensified further on Thursday, with the Meenambakkam weather station recording a maximum temperature of 41.9° Celsius, marking the highest temperature of the summer season so far. The Nungambakkam weather station reported a temperature of 40.1° Celsius.
These temperatures are significantly above normal, with Meenambakkam and Nungambakkam reporting temperatures 3.3° Celsius and 2.2° Celsius above their respective averages.
However, Chennai did not record the highest temperature in Tamil Nadu on Thursday. Tiruttani surpassed the capital with a blistering 42.5° Celsius, which is also 3.3° Celsius above the norm. Other districts, including Vellore and Madurai, also experienced intense heat, with temperatures reaching 41.5° Celsius and 40.2° Celsius, respectively.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Chennai has indicated that the high temperatures are expected to persist, forecasting that the maximum temperature will remain 2-3° Celsius above normal in several areas of Tamil Nadu on Friday. A slight relief is anticipated from June 1 to June 3, with temperatures predicted to fall by 1-2° Celsius, bringing them closer to normal or slightly above normal levels across the state.
In Chennai, residents can expect a partly cloudy sky, with maximum temperatures hovering between 40-41° Celsius. The minimum temperature is expected to remain warm, ranging from 29-30° Celsius.
The ongoing heat wave underscores the need for precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. Authorities recommend staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, and taking necessary measures to stay cool.