Tamil Nadu is set to face a temperature spike following recent rainfall, with the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) forecasting a 2-3°C rise above normal until March 19. Maximum temperatures are expected to hover between 34-36°C across the state, with dry weather prevailing due to light northeasterly winds. The IMD’s advisory comes as Vellore recently hit 38.6°C on March 14, alongside similar spikes in Tirupattur, Karur Paramathi, Chennai, Erode, and Madurai, all exceeding 38°C.

Chennai will see partly cloudy skies, with Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam stations recording 34-35°C highs and 23-24°C lows over the next two days. While most regions stay dry, southern and delta districts may experience light to moderate rain due to a Bay of Bengal cyclonic circulation. Northeastern and interior areas could reach 34-36°C, while other parts linger at 32-34°C until March 20.

The Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine (DPH) has issued a heat advisory, urging residents to hydrate with fluids like buttermilk and fruit juices with salt, avoid midday sun (noon-3 p.m.), and stay in ventilated spaces. Outdoor workers are advised to take shaded breaks and sip water every 20 minutes, while alcohol, caffeine, and stale food are discouraged. Special care is recommended for infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with health conditions, with a warning never to leave children or pets in parked cars.

Symptoms like dizziness or nausea warrant immediate medical attention. As extreme heat grips parts of Tamil Nadu—evident in recent highs—the advisory stresses vigilance to prevent heat-related illnesses. With coastal areas expecting normal to above-normal rainfall, the state faces a mixed weather pattern, but the focus remains on managing the imminent heatwave’s impact through proactive public health measures.