Many parts of T.N. may continue to sizzle with soaring day temperature predicted for another five days

Tamil Nadu experiencing second summer with record-breaking temperatures, dry spell forecasted by Regional Meteorological Centre in Chennai.

Tamil Nadu seems to be in the grip of a second summer, with day temperatures reaching new peaks every day.

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, has forecast a dry spell and a maximum temperature that is above average by two to four degrees Celsius in some pockets, for another five days.

The RMC has said near-normal rainfall is likely over the delta districts, while the rest of the State may receive below-normal rainfall till September 19. The rain intensity may pick up after September 20, particularly in north Tamil Nadu where there are chances of above-normal rainfall till September 26.

The day temperature has been steadily rising across the State since September 12. The Madurai airport, which already saw an all-time record for September at 40.6 degrees Celsius on September 12 and 14, again experienced a blazing hot day on Monday.

For the third consecutive day, the weather station at the Madurai airport recorded the hottest temperature in the State, with the day temperature touching 40.3 degrees Celsius.

On Sunday, Chennai recorded the decade’s highest day temperature of 38.2 degrees Celsius, dropping slightly to 37.1 degrees Celsius on Monday.

P. Senthamarai Kannan, Director, Area Cyclone Warning Centre, RMC, said strong monsoon activity in north India had led to subdued weather over the State. Three weather systems that travelled northwards had deflected moisture availability in the State. There were chances of isolated rain and evening thunderstorms throughout the week, he said.