VISIBLY HOT: As the temperature soars high, a mirage on roads such as this one is a common sight in Chennai. — Photo: K. Pichumani

CHENNAI : Chennai experienced this season's most sweltering day on Wednesday with the mercury level soaring to 42.8 degree Celsius in Nungambakkam.

It was "an uncomfortable day" in the parlance of the Meteorological Department. The temperature at the Meenambakkam observatory was 42 degrees Celsius between 8.30 a.m. and 5.30 p.m. on Wednesday, according to an official.

The rising mercury level in the city is attributed to the influence of dry westerlies. The onset of sea breeze was delayed, he said.

The humidity was low at 53 per cent in Nungambakkam and 20 per cent in Meenambakkam. It is natural for the humidity level to drop when the temperature rises because of the decrease in water vapour content in the air, the official added. Last May, the mercury level peaked to 41.8 degree Celsius.

Summer is at its peak usually during the second half of the month. The current heat spell is likely to continue with the department forecasting temperature at around 42 degree Celsius on Thursday. However, there are chances for showers on such sweltering days, as the heat leads to formation of thunderclouds, the official pointed out.

The scorching heat on Wednesday forced several road-users to seek reprieve under tree shades and bus stops. The only people who did not seem to be complaining were vendors of tender coconut, juice and cool drinks. A doctor in the Government General Hospital said no case of heat stroke was reported. He advised that people drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

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