Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, May 2: While parts of Tamil Nadu are expected to receive spells of heavy rain over the next three days, the state continues to grapple with a strong heatwave, with temperatures rising sharply across several districts, according to the India Meteorological Department.

The Regional Meteorological Centre Chennai has predicted rainfall in multiple regions, which may provide temporary relief from the ongoing heat. However, officials warned that high humidity combined with elevated temperatures is likely to sustain uncomfortable conditions, particularly in coastal and interior areas.

On Friday, temperatures exceeded 37.8°C in at least 12 locations across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, reflecting the severity of the heatwave. The highest reading was recorded in Vellore at 42.2°C.

Several major centres also reported extreme heat, including Tiruchirappalli, Chennai (Meenambakkam), and Madurai Airport, where temperatures touched 40°C.

Other regions such as Madurai city, Tirupattur, and Dharmapuri recorded around 39.4°C. Temperatures remained close to 38.9°C in areas including Erode, Karur, Paramathi, and Tiruttani, while Nagapattinam recorded 38.3°C. Palayamkottai and Puducherry also experienced temperatures near 37.8°C.

Meteorologists have cautioned that the combination of heat and humidity could lead to heat stress and health risks, especially during peak afternoon hours. Coastal cities like Chennai are expected to feel even hotter due to moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal, with temperatures likely to hover around 40°C on Sunday.

Authorities have advised the public to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, stay hydrated, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses. While upcoming rainfall may offer brief respite in some areas, experts say it is unlikely to significantly offset the broader warming trend as summer conditions intensify across the state.