IMD Forecasts Rain in Tamil Nadu Amid Ongoing Heatwave
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Chennai, April 8 (NationPress) Light to moderate rainfall is anticipated in various regions of Tamil Nadu on Wednesday, bringing a potential respite from the persistent heatwave, according to the India Meteorological Department. Thunderstorms and lightning may occur in isolated areas, particularly across southern Tamil Nadu, northern coastal districts, as well as Puducherry and Karaikal. The Western Ghats are also expected to receive some showers, while much of northern interior Tamil Nadu may remain predominantly dry.
In Chennai, the day will witness partly cloudy skies, with a possibility of moderate rain in certain areas. However, despite the forecasted rain, several districts continue to experience heatwave conditions.
On Tuesday, temperature records showed that at least 12 locations reached extremely high levels, with Vellore being the hottest at 42.2 degrees Celsius. Karur followed closely at 41 degrees, while Erode and Namakkal reported temperatures near the 40-degree mark.
Other districts, such as Tirupattur (39.5 degrees), Tiruchy (39 degrees), and Tiruttani (38.9 degrees), also reported conditions close to a heatwave.
Additional areas, including Paramathi, Dharmapuri, and Palayamkottai, recorded elevated temperatures, while cities like Madurai, Salem, and Tiruchy airport saw mercury levels surpassing 37 degrees.
The IMD has indicated that the maximum temperatures in various parts of the State were 2-3 degrees above the normal range, highlighting ongoing heat stress conditions.
Weather specialists caution that, despite intermittent rainfall, there is unlikely to be a significant decrease in temperatures over the coming days.
Looking ahead, similar weather patterns are forecasted for April 9, with isolated rainfall expected across several regions.
Beginning April 10, scattered light to moderate showers may occur throughout Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal, gradually becoming limited to the Western Ghats and delta districts.
Meteorologists have pointed to a wind discontinuity stretching from eastern India to the Gulf of Mannar as a factor contributing to the current mix of heat and localized rainfall, which supports convective activity.
While brief showers may provide temporary relief, authorities advise the public to remain vigilant, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged exposure to peak daytime heat, as above-normal temperatures are predicted to persist across many regions of the state.