Tamil Nadu heatwave: Vellore hits 42.2°C, heavy rain forecast for 3 days
Synopsis
Tamil Nadu is caught in a punishing double bind — a raging heatwave with Vellore touching 42.2°C and 12 locations crossing 37.8°C, even as the IMD flags heavy rain for the next three days. The incoming rainfall may offer only partial relief, with meteorologists warning that the broader summer warming trend across the State is unlikely to reverse quickly.
Key Takeaways
Vellore recorded Tamil Nadu's highest temperature on Friday at 42.2 degrees Celsius .
At least 12 locations across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry crossed 37.8 degrees Celsius on Friday.
Tiruchirappalli , Chennai (Meenambakkam) , and Madurai Airport touched 40 degrees Celsius .
The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall across several Tamil Nadu regions over the next three days .
Meteorologists warn the rainfall may not fully offset the broader warming trend as summer intensifies.
Residents have been advised to avoid sun exposure, stay hydrated, and guard against heat-related illnesses.
Tamil Nadu is simultaneously battling an intensifying heatwave and bracing for heavy rainfall over the next three days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Temperatures crossed 37.8 degrees Celsius in at least 12 locations across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry on Friday, even as the Regional Meteorological Centre forecast significant rainfall in the coming days.
Peak Temperatures Across the State
Vellore recorded the highest temperature in the State at 42.2 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest location on Friday. Major urban centres were not far behind — Tiruchirappalli, Chennai (Meenambakkam), and Madurai Airport all reported temperatures touching 40 degrees Celsius.
Madurai city, Tirupattur, and Dharmapuri recorded around 39.4 degrees Celsius, while Erode, Karur, Paramathi, and Tiruttani hovered near 38.9 degrees Celsius. Nagapattinam saw 38.3 degrees Celsius, and Palayamkottai and Puducherry reported approximately 37.8 degrees Celsius.
Heat Stress Warning from IMD
The IMD has warned that the combination of high temperatures and elevated humidity could trigger heat stress and significant discomfort, particularly during peak daytime hours. Coastal regions, including Chennai, are expected to feel even hotter due to moisture-laden winds blowing in from the Bay of Bengal.
In Chennai, the maximum temperature is likely to hover around 40 degrees Celsius on Sunday, with sultry conditions compounding the discomfort for residents. High temperatures and humidity levels are expected to persist especially across coastal and interior districts.
Heavy Rain Forecast for Next Three Days
The Regional Meteorological Centre has forecast spells of heavy rainfall across several regions of Tamil Nadu over the next three days, which may offer some respite from the prevailing heat. However, meteorologists caution that the anticipated rainfall may not be sufficient to offset the broader warming trend gripping the State as summer intensifies.
This comes amid a wider pattern of early and severe summer heat that has been observed across peninsular India in recent weeks, with multiple states recording above-normal temperatures well before the onset of the southwest monsoon.
Precautions Advised for Residents
The weather office has advised residents to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, stay adequately hydrated, and take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses. Vulnerable groups including the elderly, children, and outdoor workers are considered at heightened risk during such conditions.
With temperatures unlikely to ease significantly in the short term, authorities are expected to remain on alert as the State navigates the dual challenge of heatwave conditions and incoming rainfall over the coming days.
Point of View
A pattern consistent with broader climate shifts across peninsular India. Public health infrastructure in districts like Vellore and Dharmapuri, which routinely bear the brunt of summer heat, warrants urgent attention — not just weather advisories.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest temperature recorded in Tamil Nadu on Friday?
Vellore recorded the highest temperature in Tamil Nadu on Friday at 42.2 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department. At least 12 locations across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry crossed 37.8 degrees Celsius on the same day.
Will it rain in Tamil Nadu in the next three days?
Yes, the Regional Meteorological Centre has forecast heavy rainfall across several regions of Tamil Nadu over the next three days. However, meteorologists caution that the rain may not be sufficient to fully offset the ongoing heatwave conditions.
What is the expected temperature in Chennai this weekend?
Chennai's maximum temperature is likely to hover around 40 degrees Celsius on Sunday, according to the IMD. Moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal are expected to add to the humidity and discomfort.
What precautions has the IMD advised during the Tamil Nadu heatwave?
The IMD has advised residents to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, stay well hydrated, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and outdoor workers face heightened risk during these conditions.
Which other districts in Tamil Nadu are severely affected by the heatwave?
Besides Vellore, districts including Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, Tirupattur, Dharmapuri, Erode, Karur, and Nagapattinam are severely affected, with temperatures ranging from 38.3 to 40 degrees Celsius. Puducherry and Palayamkottai also reported temperatures around 37.8 degrees Celsius.
