Tamil Nadu Weather: Hotter Days Ahead For Chennai, Chengalpattu; Heavy Rains Likely In Coimbatore, Erode

Residents across Tamil Nadu should brace for hotter days ahead, with temperatures expected to climb steadily from May 1 to May 5, particularly in Chennai and the surrounding KTCC region (Kanchipuram, Tiruvallur, Chennai and Chengalpattu).

Weather experts say the coming days will mark the peak of the current heat phase in northern parts of the state. According to weather blogger R Pradeep John, temperatures in North Tamil Nadu and the Chennai region are likely to remain elevated until around May 4 or 5, after which a gradual dip is expected. He notes that once the traditional Kathri Veyil period begins, daytime temperatures could fall by 3-4°C from their peak levels.

Despite the rising heat, there is some relief in sight. Several parts of South India, including western, interior and southern Tamil Nadu, are expected to receive good rainfall in the coming days. Neighbouring Kerala and Karnataka are also likely to see widespread showers. The Regional Meteorological Centre has forecast light to moderate rain at a few places across Tamil Nadu, with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching 30-40 kmph in isolated areas.

Heavy rainfall is expected in districts such as the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Erode, Tiruppur, Dindigul and Theni, offering respite from the otherwise hot conditions in the next two days.

In Chennai, however, the immediate outlook remains warm and humid. The city is forecast to record maximum temperatures of 37-38°C and minimum temperatures of 27-28°C over the next two days, with partly cloudy skies and persistent humidity adding to discomfort levels.

The latest observations highlight the intensifying heat across the state. Tiruchirappalli recorded the highest maximum temperature at 40.5°C, while Erode and Vellore also reported temperatures close to 40°C on Tuesday. On the cooler side, hill stations continue to offer relief, with Kodaikanal recording a minimum of 11.7°C.

Meteorologists attribute the current heatwave conditions largely to prolonged dry spells, lack of April rainfall and clear skies that have increased solar heating. High-pressure systems and low soil moisture have also reduced natural cooling effects.

Interestingly, experts point out that severe heatwaves in India often follow the decay phase of El Niño events. Historical patterns show intense heat in years following El Niño, including 1998, 2003, 2016 and 2024. However, the current heat is not directly linked to a fully developed El Niño, which is yet to set in, noted weather blogger R Pradeep John.

Looking ahead, maximum temperatures across Tamil Nadu are expected to remain above normal by 2-3°C through early May, with a rising trend continuing until at least May 3. Relief is likely to be gradual rather than immediate, as intermittent rainfall and seasonal transitions begin to influence weather patterns.