The scorching temperatures synonymous with Chennai’s May, may be experiencing a temporary reprieve. Meteorologists predict a brief window of respite over the next 48 hours, with light rainfall anticipated across the city and its suburbs.
This comes amidst cyclonic activity influencing the state’s weather patterns, potentially delaying the arrival of the dreaded “dog days” associated with the peak summer month. This respite may be short-lived. Experts warn of a potential temperature surge exceeding 40°C by next week. This anticipated rise is attributed to the arrival of westerly winds, emanating from the landmass, preceding the southwest monsoon’s onset over Kerala by the 31st of May.
The past two decades offer historical context. Only in 2004 and 2018 did Chennai witness a May month where temperatures remained below the scorching 40°C mark. This year’s weather patterns seem poised to potentially challenge that trend. Meteorological analysis suggests a low-pressure system forming over the southwest Bay of Bengal by May 22nd, influenced by the current cyclonic circulation. This system’s intensification and subsequent movement towards Myanmar could trigger a shift in wind patterns over Chennai, paving the way for westerlies and a subsequent temperature increase.
While the immediate forecast offers a sigh of relief for Chennai residents, the coming days are crucial. The next 48 hours will likely witness light rainfall, with maximum temperatures hovering around a comfortable 35-36°C and minimums settling at 27-28°C. This translates to a welcome departure from the city’s average May temperature of 37.3°C.
Data from Tuesday paints a picture of a city seeking temporary solace from the heat. Light rain showers brought a much-needed respite, with Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam observatories recording minimal rainfall (0.5mm and 0.1mm respectively). The gloomy weather effectively capped temperatures, with Nungambakkam experiencing a pleasant 35.3°C and Meenambakkam registering a comfortable 35.8°C. These readings represent a significant deviation from the norm, with temperatures nearly 3°C below average. A crucial caveat exists: the “feels like” temperature paints a different picture. High humidity levels, exceeding 75% in the morning and rising to over 85% by evening, created a perception of discomfort despite the relatively low readings. This highlights the importance of considering humidity alongside temperature when evaluating thermal comfort levels.
Chennai residents may enjoy a brief respite from the scorching heat, but the reprieve is likely temporary. The threat of westerlies and a subsequent temperature spike looms large. As the month progresses, developments over the next few days will be keenly monitored by meteorologists and residents alike. The question of whether May succumbs to the historical trend of exceeding 40°C remains unanswered, leaving Chennai on the precipice of a potential early-season heatwave.
“We can expect light to moderate intensity rainfall till May 24. By May 25, the system would have moved up northwards. By May 27 or 28, temperatures may go up as strong westerlies will arrive. There is a possibility for temperatures to cross 40°C, which is not unusual for this season. But we will have to wait and watch if we’ll have heatwave conditions,” said N Senthamarai Kannan, director, regional weather forecasting centre, IMD.
