It was not just the transport strike that hit normal life of Chennaiites on Monday. Blistering heat and hot wind also kept many indoors as the mercury soared to 41.1 degree Celsius, the highest so far this May.
According to Met department officials, the weather observatories in Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam recorded 41.1 degree Celsius and 42.5 degree Celsius respectively on Monday. This is four degrees higher than the average temperature for the season.
Last year, the maximum temperature peaked at 40.8 degree Celsius on May 26 in the city. So far, Chennai experienced its all-time-high temperature of 45 degree Celsius on May 31, 2003.
People who were outdoors at noon said they experienced a ‘real feel’ temperature of at least four notches above the recorded day temperature. “Though air-conditioner temperature was set at 23 degrees in my bedroom, I had work in the kitchen and the heat was unbearable. Water in the tap was boiling hot and I could not even have a wash,” said Rani Damodaran, a resident of Pozhichalur.
S. Balachandran, director of Area Cyclone Warning Centre, Chennai, said strong westerly winds that bring hot air and clear sky led to soaring mercury level on Monday. The delay in onset of sea breeze was also a major reason for the heat.
‘Sea breeze set in late’
“On Monday, the sea breeze set in only at 12.50 p.m. and it took another hour to reach Meenambakkam. Sea breeze has a pivotal role in ensuring cool days during summer. Whenever there is a delay, it leads to a rise in mercury level. On Sunday, the sea breeze arrived around 11.40 a.m. that sustained the maximum temperature at 38.6 degree Celsius,” he said.
Chennaiites may have to endure a hot week as the department forecasts said the searing heat would continue for at least two more days.
Mr. Balachandran said the day temperature may continue to peak beyond 40 degree Celsius till Wednesday due to strong westerlies in the city.
Many northern parts of the State, including Vellore, may continue to reel under scorching heat and the maximum temperature may even climb up to 43 degree Celsius in some interior parts.
However, some areas close to the Western Ghats like Coimbatore may have some respite due to light rain. The department forecasts that the maximum temperature will hover around 41 degree Celsius till Wednesday.
