Chennai Weather Update: Drizzle Brings Relief; RMC Forecasts More Rain and Thunderstorms

Cloudy skies and intermittent drizzle brought much-needed relief from the sweltering heat across Chennai on Saturday, leading to a noticeable drop in temperatures. Similar weather conditions are expected to continue on Sunday, with the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) forecasting light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.

The RMC has also warned of gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph at isolated places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal until July 21 (Tuesday).

Explaining the prevailing weather conditions, V.R. Durai, Head of the Regional Weather Forecasting Centre, said that upper-air cyclonic circulations continue to persist over the Gulf of Mannar and adjoining southern Tamil Nadu, as well as over north Kerala and neighbouring regions. These weather systems, located between 5.8 km and 7.6 km above mean sea level, are expected to trigger light to moderate rainfall, along with thunderstorms and lightning, over Chennai on Sunday.

Despite the change in weather, Madurai Airport recorded the highest maximum temperature in Tamil Nadu on Saturday at 40.1°C. In contrast, Ooty recorded the State`s lowest temperature at 10.2°C. In Chennai, Nungambakkam registered a maximum temperature of 34°C, while Meenambakkam recorded 35°C.

According to the weather department, maximum temperatures are likely to remain near normal over coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal until July 22 (Wednesday). However, temperatures in some interior districts may remain 2–3°C above normal during the same period.

Looking ahead, the RMC has forecast light to moderate rainfall at isolated places over the Western Ghats districts, north coastal Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal on July 23 and 24, indicating that wet weather is likely to continue in parts of the State.