RMC Forecasts Rising Temperatures in Tamil Nadu, Heat Advisory Activated

Chennai, March 18 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu is on the brink of a temperature rise, with the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) predicting a spike of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above the usual levels until March 19.

As per the RMC's forecast, maximum temperatures are anticipated to fall between 34 and 36 degrees Celsius over the upcoming days.

Light winds from the northeast, east, or southeast are expected to dominate in the lower tropospheric regions. Dry weather conditions are forecasted, with certain areas likely to face extreme heat.

Extended forecasts from dynamic models suggest that maximum temperatures will generally stay near normal across most of the state. However, northeastern and nearby interior districts could see temperatures hitting between 34 and 36 degrees Celsius, while other regions may record between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius until March 20.

In Chennai, following a brief break from the heat, the city will experience partly cloudy skies. The temperature at the Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam weather stations is projected to range from 34 to 35 degrees Celsius, with a minimum temperature of 23 to 24 degrees Celsius over the next couple of days.

While most of Tamil Nadu remains dry, the southern and delta regions are likely to see light to moderate rainfall in the forthcoming days. This is attributed to increased moisture levels from a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal.

Coastal and nearby districts can expect normal to above-normal rainfall until March 20. Various areas in Tamil Nadu are already experiencing extreme heat, with Vellore recording a peak temperature of 38.6 degrees Celsius on March 17. Locations such as Tirupattur, Karur Paramathi, Chennai, Erode, and Madurai have also reported significant temperature increases, exceeding 38 degrees Celsius in some instances.

In light of the rising temperatures, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (DPH) has issued a health advisory urging residents to take precautions against heat-related health issues.

People are encouraged to stay hydrated, with recommendations to drink plenty of fluids such as lemon water, buttermilk, lassi, and fruit juices with a pinch of salt. Additionally, consuming fruits and vegetables with high water content is advised.

The health department recommends remaining in cool, well-ventilated areas, keeping windows and curtains closed during the day, and opening them at night for airflow.

It is also advised to plan outdoor activities for cooler times and to avoid venturing out between noon and 3 p.m.

The health department has urged individuals to refrain from consuming alcohol, caffeinated drinks, carbonated beverages, high-protein foods, and stale food.

Special care should be taken for infants, young children, pregnant women, individuals with heart conditions, and those with pre-existing health issues. Workers outdoors should minimize sun exposure, avoid strenuous tasks during peak heat hours, take frequent breaks in shaded areas, and hydrate every 20 minutes. Elderly individuals or those living alone should be regularly monitored.

The advisory stresses that children and pets should never be left inside parked vehicles, as temperatures can soar to dangerous levels. The public should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms like dizziness, headaches, nausea, or heat exhaustion.

With high temperatures expected to persist over the next few days, authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and adhere to safety measures to prevent heat-related health challenges.