Since June 1, Chennai has registered only 11 cm, short by 10 cm of the average rainfall for the season. But meteorologists say they expect two or three spells of rainfall in the coming months, which will likely bridge the deficit.
So far this year, the city has received only half its average rainfall for the season. But all hope is not lost for wet days, with meteorological department officials saying that a good spell of showers is expected, as nearly two-thirds of the southwest monsoon’s rainfall is registered in August and September.
Since June 1, Chennai has registered only 11 cm, short by 10 cm of the average rainfall for the season. But meteorologists say they expect two or three spells of rainfall in the coming months, which will likely bridge the deficit.
The city usually registers an average of 40-45 cm of rainfall between June and September. Of this, nearly 30 cm is received during August and September.
On Wednesday, rain cooled many parts of the city, particularly southern suburbs. Unlike the last few days, Meenambakkam recorded 1.1 cm of rainfall. Nungambakkam, however, registered only 2 mm. Convective cloud activity followed by an intense period of heat caused the showers. However, temperatures of over 37 degree Celsius were recorded, two degrees above normal.
Such light showers may continue for two more days, officials said. However, there will be a decrease in rainfall after Saturday.
The deficit in rainfall has caused concern among plant lovers and farmers. G. Mullaivanam, founder of NGO Tree Bank, said seeds are sown during the first week of August. Lack of rainfall during this period would result in lower yields, he added.
Keywords: meteorological department
