Representational image | Photo: AFP
Chennai: The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) on Saturday has predicted a further rise in temperatures across Tamil Nadu over the coming days, with severe heat already gripping several parts of the state.
Chennai and its interior districts have experienced a second consecutive day of scorching weather. Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam recorded 35.3 degrees Celsius and 37.1 degrees Celsius, respectively, both above the seasonal average.
Vellore emerged as the hottest location in the state, registering a maximum temperature of 40.9 degrees Celsius.
Meteorologists forecast that the hot spell will persist for at least three more days, with Chennai likely to see daytime temperatures around 38 degrees Celsius on Saturday. Night temperatures are expected to range between 26 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius.
The RMC has also warned that certain parts of Tamil Nadu could experience temperatures 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above normal due to the ongoing dry weather conditions.
Weather factors contributing to heatwav
Southerly winds and a restricted sea breeze have intensified the heat, particularly in Chennai. However, some relief is expected as a trough extending from central India to south interior Tamil Nadu could bring changes in weather conditions.
According to N. Senthamarai Kannan, Director of the Regional Weather Forecasting Centre of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), pre-monsoon showers are likely from April 1.
"Rain activity is expected to begin in southern Tamil Nadu and may extend to northern regions, including Chennai, with possible thunderstorms by April 1 or 2," Kannan said.
Interior districts such as Karur, Erode, and Salem, which experienced unusually high temperatures in February, may see further increases of 1–2 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
Public health advisory issued amid rising temperatures
In response to the weather advisory, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine has released a set of guidelines to help residents cope with the heat.
The public is advised to stay hydrated by consuming homemade beverages such as lemon water, buttermilk, lassi, and fruit juices with a pinch of salt. Water-rich fruits and vegetables should be incorporated into daily meals.
People are urged to remain indoors during peak heat hours, ensure proper ventilation in homes, and avoid direct sunlight.
Precautionary measures for vulnerable groups
The advisory warns against consuming alcohol, caffeine, carbonated drinks, high-protein foods, and stale food.
It also strongly cautions against leaving children or pets in parked vehicles, as temperatures inside can become dangerously high.
Extra precautions are recommended for vulnerable groups such as infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with heart conditions or other pre-existing health issues.
Guidelines for outdoor workers
Those working outdoors are advised to avoid strenuous activities between 12 pm. and 3 pm., take frequent breaks in shaded areas, and drink water every 20 minutes.
Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly or unwell individuals living alone and seek immediate medical attention in case of dizziness, headaches, or signs of heat stress.
With temperatures set to remain high in the coming days, authorities urge people to stay cautious and follow health and safety measures to mitigate the effects of the extreme heat.
IANS
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