Chennai, July 14 (IANS) The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has forecast that maximum temperatures across Tamil Nadu could rise by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius above normal until July 16, with hot and humid conditions expected to persist in several parts of the state despite the ongoing southwest monsoon.

Even as July reaches its midway point, Tamil Nadu continues to experience intense summer-like conditions as the southwest monsoon has remained weak over the state.

With rainfall continuing to be below normal in many regions, the impact of the heat has steadily intensified over the past few days. The weather office has warned that coastal districts of Tamil Nadu, along with Puducherry, are likely to experience uncomfortable weather conditions due to the combined effect of high temperatures and elevated humidity.

People have been advised to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during the afternoon and remain adequately hydrated.

The persistent heat was reflected in Sunday’s temperature readings, with 14 locations across Tamil Nadu recording temperatures of 37.8 degrees Celsius or above.

Vellore was the hottest place in the state, recording a maximum temperature of 41.7 degrees Celsius. Madurai Airport recorded 41.1 degrees Celsius, while Madurai city registered 40.6 degrees Celsius. Tiruttani and Chennai’s Meenambakkam observatory each recorded 40 degrees Celsius. Tiruchy and Cuddalore registered 39.4 degrees Celsius while Palayamkottai and Chennai’s Nungambakkam weather station recorded 38.9 degrees Celsius.

Temperatures also crossed the 38.6-degree Celsius mark in Nagapattinam, Erode, Karur Paramathi, Parangipettai and Namakkal, highlighting the widespread nature of the hot weather across the state.

Meteorologists said the subdued southwest monsoon has limited rainfall over much of Tamil Nadu, allowing daytime temperatures to remain significantly above normal.

The absence of widespread cloud cover and rainfall has contributed to the continued spell of hot weather even during the monsoon season. The RMC has, however, forecast light rainfall over the Western Ghats districts on Tuesday. While these showers may bring localised relief in the hilly regions, they are unlikely to substantially reduce temperatures across the plains, where hot and humid conditions are expected to prevail until at least July 16.

–IANS

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