Dark clouds over the city's skyline and a light drizzle on Monday delighted the city's residents who have been reeling under sweltering temperatures for several days now.
The maximum temperature recorded in observatories in Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam dipped to 33 degree Celsius and 33.9 degree Celsius, which is nearly four degrees lower than the average during this period. On Sunday, the city registered a day temperature of 38 degree Celsius.
On Monday, many automatic rain gauges in and around the city, such as the ones in Taramani, Avadi and Poonamallee too, recorded 32 degree Celsius.
However, stations in and around Chennai recorded only a trace of rainfall. So far, the city has received only 2 cm of rainfall since January. In June alone, Chennai generally receives about 4 cm.
Areas in and around the city received only traces of rainfall, leaving residents, who had expected more, disappointed. “We have not had rains for the past few months. I even carried my raincoat to office this morning, expecting a shower as it was quite windy in the morning,” said Shyamala.P., a resident of Kilpauk.
Officials at the meteorological department said the active southwest monsoon contributed to the isolated rainfall across the State. About 20 per cent of weather stations across the State record rainfall on a daily basis. Officials said Chennai is expected to get some rainfall in the coming days.
The dip in the day temperature may continue for two more days and the maximum temperature will be around 35 degree Celsius.
The meteorological department also forecast that surface wind would be strong and gusty at times.
