Chennai, May 3 (IANS). The peak of the scorching heat, known as ‘Agni Nachathiram’ or ‘Kathiri Veyil’, is set to begin in Tamil Nadu from May 4. According to officials, the extreme heat wave is likely to continue till May 28.
The Meteorological Department has warned of a sharp rise in temperature across the state during this period, which may create heat wave-like conditions in many districts.
Tamil Nadu has been facing rising temperatures since March, and it has been rising steadily over the past few weeks. With the onset of May, the effects of heat have increased further, especially during the day when heat waves are at their highest.
The Meteorological Department has warned that the maximum temperature in the interior districts may reach 43 degrees Celsius in the coming days. Many parts of Tamil Nadu are already recording temperatures above 38-40 degrees Celsius, signaling the beginning of a prolonged scorching heat wave.
The ‘Agni Natchathiram’ period is traditionally considered to be the hottest time of the year in the state, with a dry environment and intense solar radiation.
Severe heat wave is expected in interior areas like Vellore, Tiruchirappalli, Karur, Erode and Madurai, where day temperatures will be high and cloud cover will be low.
Meanwhile, temperatures in coastal areas including Chennai are likely to remain relatively low, but the weather may become muggy and uncomfortable due to high humidity.
The current weather pattern is influenced by clear skies and intense solar heat, which usually dominates this phase before the onset of pre-monsoon rains towards the end of the month. However, there is no possibility of any significant relief in the near future.
In view of the threat of heat, officials have issued advisories urging the public to take necessary precautions. People have been advised to drink adequate amount of water, not go out of the house during the afternoon and wear light, loose-fitting clothes.
Special precautions have been advised for children, elderly people and people already suffering from any disease who are more sensitive to heat-related diseases.
Authorities have also warned to avoid prolonged outdoor activities, especially between 11 am and 3 pm, when temperatures are at their peak. The extreme heat phase is likely to continue for more than three weeks, so residents have been urged to remain vigilant and plan their daily routine accordingly to minimize exposure to extreme heat.
–IANS
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