Despite India Meteorological Department declaring onset of southwest monsoon over southeast bay in Andaman and Nicobar on Wednesday, the temperature levels stood high in Tamil Nadu.
The mercury levels were three degrees more than normal temperature at Chennai. While Nungambakkam recorded 40.6 degree Celsius, Meenambakkam was slightly higher at 42.3 degree Celsius.
“The rise in temperature is mainly due to weak sea breeze. Further, the onset of sea breeze was also a little late on Wednesday at 1.05 pm in Nungambakkam and at 2.15 pm in Meenambakkam,” said Dr Y.E.A. Raj, deputy director-general of meteorology, regional meteorological centre (RMC).
The onset of southwest monsoon in Andaman area increased the pressure gradient over the region, which led to strong wind speed and less sea breeze, he added.
He further said the northwesterly winds are also playing havoc with the weather in the city. “The hot wind from Rayalseema region is adding to our woes.
The comfort level in the city has come down and Wednesday was one of the hotter days,” he added. Noting that there has been lack of thundery activities over the city during evening time, Dr Raj said the likelihood of rain is less in Chennai. “The state is very dry due to less thundery activity,” he added.
In the districts, Cuddalore recorded the highest temperature of 41.2 degree Celsius on Wednesday followed by Vellore at 40.6 degree Celsius.
Tiruchy (38.3), Karur (38.6), Madurai (39.4), Nagappattinam (38.4) and Palayamkottai (39.4) are the other districts that recorded high temperature.