The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has extended its heatwave alert for Tamil Nadu until May 4, warning that at least six districts will experience temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The forecast, issued on Sunday, highlights the persistence of intense heat across the region.
According to IMD’s bulletin, humid air and high temperatures will create hot and uncomfortable conditions in isolated pockets across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. Erode in Tamil Nadu recorded the highest temperature at a scorching 42 degrees Celsius. Although Chennai is not under a heatwave condition with temperatures at 36 degrees Celsius, the city is enduring sweltering heat due to high humidity levels.
Chief Secretary Shiv Das Meena conducted a review meeting with officials from the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO) on Friday, focusing on the increased demand for power, especially in Chennai.
An official from the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) mentioned that heatwave conditions are expected to persist in north interior Tamil Nadu over the next five days. The maximum temperature is anticipated to rise gradually by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius over interior Tamil Nadu during this period. Some districts like Salem (41.9°C), Vellore (40.1°C), and Karur (40.5°C) have already recorded high temperatures.
In response to the heatwave, Chief Minister MK Stalin chaired a meeting to strategize water usage for supply and distribution. He assured the public that measures are in place, including setting up water supply points at over 1,000 locations, including bus terminuses and markets. Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) packets are also being distributed, and government hospitals and health centers are prepared for any eventualities.
Independent weather blogger Pradeep John forecasted that the heatwave would peak from May 1 to 4 in north interior Tamil Nadu, particularly in districts like Vellore, Ranipet, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Erode, Salem, Namakkal, Trichy, and Karur. However, relief is expected from May 5 onwards with anticipated rains in the interior areas of the state.
Sources By Agencies