Sweltering heat is often considered synonymous with May in the city, but it is not always the end of peak summer. June is equally hot with the mercury level peaking, making it uncomfortable for residents, say meteorologists.
Residents, who were relieved that May ended on a relatively cool note, were in for a surprise as heat continued its grip over Chennai in June.
On Thursday, the day temperature peaked to the month’s high of 39.8 degrees Celsius in Nungambakkam. The weather station in Meenambakkam recorded 39.3 degrees Celsius.
Officials of the Meteorological Department say it is normal for the mercury level to peak close to 40 degrees Celsius in June as well in coastal areas such as Chennai.
Strong westerlies
S. Balachandran, Director, Area Cyclone Warning Centre, says strong westerlies and less moisture often lead to increasing temperature level. The delay in sea breeze results in heat persisting for a longer time in the city.
On Friday, the mercury level touched 40 degrees Celsius in Meenambakkam and 39.2 degrees Celsius in Nungambakkam. But the sea breeze and thundershowers cooled the city.
Areas such as Nungambakkam and Ennore recorded 2 cm of rainfall till 7 p.m.
Weather experts note that the day temperature in the city rose above normal for the past few days as the sea breeze set in as late as 4.30 p.m. According to weather expert Y.E.A. Raj, strong westerly winds did not allow the sea breeze to penetrate the land, and Chennai is hotter than interior areas during June.
The Meteorological Department forecast that development of thundershowers is likely during evening or night and the day temperature will hover around the 38 degrees Celsius mark till Sunday.