Chennai, July 16 (IANS) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for 19 districts of Tamil Nadu on Thursday, cautioning that soaring temperatures and high humidity could lead to heat-related illnesses across several parts of the state.

According to the weather department, districts likely to experience heatwave conditions today include Madurai, Tirupattur, Vellore, Ranipet, Kallakurichi, Tiruvannamalai, Kancheepuram, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Namakkal, Karur, Erode, Tiruchy, Ariyalur, Perambalur, Sivaganga, Virudhunagar and Dindigul.

Residents in these districts have been advised to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, remain hydrated and take necessary precautions, particularly during the afternoon hours when temperatures are expected to peak.

The IMD has also forecast that heatwave conditions are likely to continue on Friday in Virudhunagar, Sivaganga, Madurai, Dindigul, Karur, Namakkal and Erode districts, indicating that the intense heat may persist in parts of the interior region for another day.

Meanwhile, a slight change in the speed of the prevailing westerly winds is expected to bring some relief to parts of the state. Light rainfall is likely over the Western Ghats districts until Saturday.

On Friday, one or two places along the north coastal districts of Tamil Nadu may receive moderate rainfall, while light rain is expected in several other parts of the state. Despite the possibility of scattered showers, the weather department warned that high temperatures combined with elevated humidity levels are likely to cause heat-related discomfort along the coastal districts of Tamil Nadu through July 17.

The humid conditions are expected to make the weather feel significantly hotter, even in areas that may not officially record heatwave temperatures.

In Chennai, the maximum temperature is expected to reach around 39 degrees Celsius on Thursday. The combination of high temperature and humidity is likely to result in uncomfortable weather conditions, particularly during the daytime.

Authorities have advised the public, especially children, senior citizens and people with existing health conditions, to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours and stay well hydrated as the state experiences one of its hottest spells of the season.

–IANS

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