Tamil Nadu is bracing for continued heatwave conditions over the coming days, with the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, forecasting that intense heat will persist across interior districts at least through 16 July. The warning comes alongside a separate advisory cautioning fishermen against venturing into coastal waters due to rough sea conditions.

Heat Conditions Across the State

According to the latest RMC forecast, one or two locations in Tamil Nadu's interior districts are likely to experience heatwave conditions on 15 July. Daytime temperatures in these regions are expected to run 2 to 4 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average through 16 July.

Coastal districts, including Puducherry, are also expected to record temperatures 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above normal. The combination of elevated temperatures and high humidity levels is forecast to cause severe heat discomfort along several coastal areas — conditions that significantly raise the risk of heat-related illness.

Who Is Most at Risk

The weather department has specifically flagged children, senior citizens, outdoor workers, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions as the most vulnerable groups. Residents have been advised to stay hydrated, limit direct sun exposure during peak afternoon hours, and take precautions against heat stress.

Chennai is expected to remain partly cloudy over the next two days, but cloud cover is unlikely to bring relief — the city will continue to experience oppressive weather due to sustained high temperatures and humidity, particularly during the afternoon and early evening.

Limited Relief from Western Ghats Rainfall

While heat is set to dominate most of the state, the RMC has forecast light to moderate rainfall over the Western Ghats districts on Wednesday. Isolated light showers are also possible in a few other districts, though these are expected to provide only limited respite from the prevailing heat.

Fishermen Advisory: Rough Seas Warning

Strong winds are forecast over the Gulf of Mannar, the Comorin Sea, and adjoining Tamil Nadu coastal waters. The RMC has advised fishermen not to venture into these regions until sea conditions improve. The advisory is in force until further notice, with the department committing to issue updated bulletins as the weather pattern evolves.

Authorities have urged the public to follow official forecasts closely and take adequate precautions as heatwave conditions are expected to persist across the state in the near term.