Strong winds and evening showers bring relief to Chennai after scorching day
Chennai experienced a sudden change in weather on Sunday evening as strong winds and widespread rain showers swept through several parts of the city, providing respite from the day’s oppressive heat.
Earlier in the day, temperatures remained above seasonal averages. However, conditions shifted dramatically by evening as thunderclouds developed over the city and surrounding areas.
Residents in localities including Poonamallee reported powerful gusts that briefly created conditions similar to those seen during severe weather events. Rainfall of varying intensity was recorded across multiple neighbourhoods.
The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) had earlier predicted thunderstorms accompanied by moderate rainfall and lightning activity across Chennai and nearby districts. Weather officials also cautioned that isolated areas in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal could experience wind speeds of up to 50 kmph.
While the rainfall brought welcome relief from the recent heatwave-like conditions, humidity levels remained elevated. Meteorologists expect similar weather to continue, with partly cloudy skies and the possibility of thunderstorms and rain over the coming day. Daytime temperatures are likely to remain in the 36°C to 37°C range.
The rain also affected traffic movement in certain parts of the city. In Ambattur, where underground cable installation work has been underway for several days, diversions combined with wet road conditions led to slow-moving traffic and congestion. Police personnel were deployed at key junctions to manage vehicle flow.