Though the peak summer season locally referred to as Kathiri or Agni Natchatram is still a day away, Chennai is already in the grip of heatwave-like conditions.
The mercury level rose to 39.8 degree Celsius in Nungambakkam and 42.5 degree Celsius in Meenambakkam by Friday noon. This is the second consecutive day that the day temperature has peaked above the 40-degree mark in the suburbs.
Normally, the period between May 4 and May 28 is considered the peak summer season in the region.
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Several other places across the State such as Madurai, Tiruchi and Karur also experienced torrid heat on Friday as the temperature soared beyond 40 degree Celsius. Vellore and Tiruttani recorded the highest day temperature on Friday with mercury level touching 44.1 degree Celsius.
The Meteorological Department has forecast that the heatwave-like conditions will prevail in 13 districts across the State till Monday. This includes Chennai, Vellore, Tiruvallur, Salem and Madurai.
S. Balachandran, Deputy Director General of Meteorology, Chennai, said Cyclone Fani has completely moved away from the Tamil Nadu coast and taken moisture away. This has brought in dry, westerly winds into the region. Less cloud cover and more sunshine has also led to escalating day temperature.
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As the land breeze has grown stronger, the intervention of sea breeze that cools the coastal places is getting delayed. Such uncomfortable weather is likely to prevail over the city for a few more days. The maximum temperature will hover around 41 degree Celsius till Sunday, he added.