Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu in India, experienced scorching temperatures on Tuesday, with the mercury soaring to 42.7 degrees Celsius at Meenambakkam and 41.8 degrees Celsius at Nungambakkam. These temperatures were 4.3 and 4.4 degrees above normal, respectively. It marked the third consecutive day that Chennai witnessed maximum temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius.
The prevailing above-normal temperatures and heatwave conditions are expected to persist in most parts of India until May 31. In the plains, a heatwave is officially declared when the maximum temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius and remains at least 4.5 degrees above normal for four consecutive days.
The intense heat has been particularly challenging for two-wheeler commuters in the southern metropolitan city. Deva, a gym equipment repairman, expressed his struggle as he took a break along Anna Salai, a major arterial road. He mentioned that the past three days have been unusually hot and described it as the worst he has seen in the past ten years.
Visiting bankers from Pudukottai, unprepared for the sweltering heat, sought shelter under shawls and handkerchiefs, finding the soaring temperatures in the city unbearable. One of the bankers, Arifa, mentioned that no matter how much water they drink, it doesn’t seem to be enough to combat the heat.
For those seeking respite from the scorching weather, the roadside shops near Marina Beach, selling fruits, juices, and ice cream, have become a welcome oasis. Devika, a tourist from Andhra Pradesh, found relief by hopping from one juice shop to another, consuming water, juice, and litchi, which helped alleviate the effects of the heat.
However, the heat wave has taken a toll on the juice vendors themselves. While Karthik’s business selling sugarcane juice is thriving, he experiences heat stroke-like symptoms due to the intense heat. Despite the difficulties, he has a family to support and is unable to do much to mitigate the situation.
Unsurprisingly, the public swimming pool along Marina Beach has witnessed a surge in visitors seeking respite from the scorching temperatures. Over two thousand people reportedly visit the pool daily, almost triple the usual footfall, as they find swimming a peaceful and refreshing way to beat the heat.
As Chennai prepares for potentially worsening conditions, the government has issued an advisory urging people to venture outside only if necessary. The advisory recommends wearing caps or using umbrellas for shade and emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated.
The current heatwave in Chennai serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions and highlights the need for individuals to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the adverse effects of high temperatures.
