Tamil Nadu Heatwave Alert: RMC Warns 19 Districts as Temperatures Rise Above Normal; Rain Expected from July 17

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has issued a heatwave warning for 19 districts across Tamil Nadu as temperatures continue to soar across the state. Maximum temperatures have risen 2°C to 6°C above normal, resulting in severe heat conditions and discomfort in many regions.

The RMC has warned that heatwave conditions are likely to prevail on July 16 in Tirupattur, Vellore, Ranipet, Kallakurichi, Tiruvannamalai, Kancheepuram, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Namakkal, Karur, Erode, Tiruchirappalli, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Sivaganga, Virudhunagar, Dindigul, and Madurai districts.

Adding to the discomfort, hot and humid weather is expected to continue over the coastal districts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal until July 17, due to high temperatures combined with increased humidity.

Among the weather stations, Vellore recorded the highest maximum temperature of 41.6°C, while Madurai Airport registered 41.0°C. In Chennai, Meenambakkam recorded 40.1°C and Nungambakkam recorded 39.4°C, indicating intense summer conditions even in the capital city.

The weather department has also forecast that the heatwave will continue on July 17 in Virudhunagar, Sivaganga, Madurai, Dindigul, Karur, Namakkal, and Erode districts. Residents have been advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.

For Chennai, the forecast indicates a partly cloudy sky, with the maximum temperature likely to touch 39°C and the minimum around 28°C. The city is also expected to experience hot and humid conditions throughout the day.

Meanwhile, the RMC has offered some relief by forecasting moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning from July 17 over the Western Ghats districts, North Coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. The rainfall is expected due to the influence of lower tropospheric westerlies, which may help reduce temperatures in several parts of the state.

Authorities have urged the public to remain cautious during the heatwave, drink plenty of water, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and follow the latest weather advisories issued by the Regional Meteorological Centre.