CHENNAI: Residents across Chennai are feeling the brisk air as the city experiences its second consecutive day of unseasonably low temperatures. On Sunday, the maximum temperature at Nungambakkam plummeted to 24 degrees Celsius, marking a staggering departure of -5.5 degrees from the seasonal average of 29.5 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Meenambakkam recorded a slightly higher maximum of 25.1 degrees Celsius, but this was still below the expected seasonal norms.

According to senior meteorologist Y.E.A. Raj, the lack of sunshine and the chilly surface-level winds blowing in from the north have contributed to this unexpected drop in temperature. "This combination of factors has significantly reduced incoming solar radiation, leading to a noticeable chill throughout the day," he explained. For a coastal city like Chennai, such dramatic shifts in temperature are uncommon, especially when contrasted with inland areas like Vellore, where temperatures can vary widely.

The minimum temperatures reported were also lower than usual, with Nungambakkam recording a minimum of 20.7 degrees Celsius. The cooler weather has prompted locals to pull out their winter wardrobes in a city more accustomed to warmer climes. To add to the weather-related woes, light to moderate rainfall was predicted across Tamil Nadu, with heavier showers likely in specific districts such as Cuddalore and Thanjavur.

This unusual cold snap raises concerns for the local populace, especially those vulnerable to health issues exacerbated by sudden temperature changes. With the Northeast Monsoon still active in southern Tamil Nadu, residents are advised to stay warm and prepared for further fluctuations in weather, which reflect the broader impacts of climate change affecting weather patterns across India.