Chennai experienced higher temperatures than usual on Tuesday as the mercury soared above normal for the first time in the month, since the onset of summer.
The weather observatories in Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam recorded 34.6 degree Celsius and 35.9 degree Celsius, respectively, two degrees above normal.
Strong easterly winds had contributed to a temperature level close to normal (32 degrees Celsius) so far this month.
Officials of the meteorological department said, in the city, the days ahead would get warmer due to clear skies.
Places in interior parts of the State such as Madurai, Salem and Dharmapuri are already experiencing sweltering weather with the mercury level rising to 37 degree Celsius and 38 degree Celsius.
Y.E.A. Raj, deputy director general of meteorology, Chennai, said residents of southern parts of the State, such as Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli and Tuticorin, may have some respite as there is a trough over the Bay of Bengal. However, other parts of the State will largely experience dry weather conditions for the next three or four days due to lack of moisture in the atmosphere.
In March, Chennai would have five hot days when the wind reverses to a westerly, Mr. Raj added. Last year, the day temperature in the city peaked at 35.1 degree Celsius on March 23.
He added that there was a possibility of mist formation during March when there is more moisture closer to the ground. This will result in cooler early morning hours.
