Chennai, May 4 (UNI) Amid the prevailing intense heat wave conditions in several

parts of Tamil Nadu with the mercury level touching in excess of 100 Deg F mark,

the peak summer season called as "Kathiri", began on Sunday.

It may be noted people in many parts of the State are in the grip of intense heat wave

right from the second week of March resulting in gradual increase in mercury level.

The peak summer season, also called as 'Agni Nakshatram"--severe heat wave--would

last till May 28,during which the day temperature was expected to soar by a few notches,

which could cause more discomfort to the people, who were already feeling the pinch

of the scorching heat, coupled with high humidity level.

Chennai city, suburbs and its neighbouring districts of Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and

Chengalpattu, besides the Northern districts and Interior districts of North Tamil Nadu

like Vellore, Tiruttani, Tiruvannamalai, some districts in Central region including Karur,

and in districts like Erode, Salem, Tiruppur and southern districts like Madurai have

been recording temperatures in excess of 100 deg F mark over the last few days.

The Met office said this trend will continue for the next few days with a spike in mercury

level by a few degrees and advised the people to remain indoors and not to venture out

between 12.00 noon and 3.00 pm.

However, Chennai witnessed sharp but surprise showers on the first day of Agni

Nakshatram,providing the much needed relief to the people from the oppressive

heat.

As the sun was blazing down since morning resulting in unbearable heat, around 1500 hrs

the weather condition suddenly changed. The sky turned grey, covering the sun and soon

dark clouds over the horizon, accompanied by very strong winds, brought heavy rains in

several parts of Chennai city, suburbs and its neighbouring districts, taking the people of

this teeming megapolis totally by surprise.

Met office attributed the sudden, but sharp showers, which lasted for about 30 minutes,

due to convective activity.

They said the thunderstorm and strong winds, which damaged the roof of a multiplex at

Poonamallee area leading to eviction of those witnessing the films, would continue for

the next couple of hours in Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu and in North Interior

districts, which had been experiencing evening showers for the last two days, despite

scorching heat in the day time.

The strong and blustery winds led to some minor delay in landing of a couple of flights

at the Chennai domestic and international airports. After hovering for about 10 to 15

minutes in mid air, the flights later landed successfully, according to reports.

Despite the sudden sharp showers, Met office said dog days are ahead and people

of the Chennai city and its suburbs, besides its adjoining districts, Northern and North

interior districts are further bracing up for the sweltering days ahead.

While the scorching heat could be relentless, health officials have advised the people

on how manage the heat.

They said first and foremost, staying hydrated is key. “Water is life. In this heat wave,

people must carry water bottles whenever they venture out and suggested in take of

adequate fluids like fresh fruit juices, buttermilk, tender coconut, besides drinking

They said it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and adding lime

or mint to it can help refresh and energize the people, besides wearing cotton dresses

to beat the heat and carrying umbrella while moving out.

UNI GV 1810