IMD warns of thunderstorms, moderate rain in Chennai

CHENNAI has been receiving rainfall over the past two to three days, offering much-needed relief from the recent spell of intense heat.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city is likely to witness further rainfall on Wednesday, possibly with moderate showers or thunderstorms. The maximum temperature is expected to settle around 35 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may hover near 29 degrees Celsius.

Weekly forecast by IMD

Chennai is expected to witness varied weather conditions over the coming week. On Tuesday, 16 April, the city may experience partly cloudy skies with a possibility of moderate rain or thunderstorms, as temperatures range between 29°C and 35°C. 

The next two days, 17 and 18 April, will likely remain partly cloudy with similar temperature levels. By Friday, 19 April, skies are forecast to turn generally cloudy with light rain, while maximum temperatures may rise to 37°C. 

On Saturday, 20 April, the weather is expected to remain partly cloudy, and rain is predicted on Sunday, 21 April, bringing some relief despite the continued high of 37°C. 
 

The forecast for Monday, 22 April, suggests partly cloudy skies, with temperatures again ranging from 28°C to 37°C. Overall, Chennai is in for a warm yet occasionally wet week ahead. The Weather department has predicted light rainfall for Chennai on April 19. The maximum temperature throughout the week is expected to remain around 37 dcegrees Celsius and minimum will hover around 28 degrees Celsius.

Tamil Nadu forecast for next 7 days

Residents of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal can expect a spell of light to moderate rain over the next week, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

On April 15 (Tuesday), isolated areas across the region are likely to witness light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph.

On April 16 (Wednesday), similar weather is expected, with thunderstorms and lightning likely at one or two locations.

From April 17 to April 21, the forecast indicates light to moderate rainfall at isolated places across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. However, thunderstorm activity is expected to reduce after April 16.
Social media platform X (formerly Twitter) is buzzing with videos, pictures, and emotional reactions. Here are some of the reactions: 

"Finally, some relief! Chennai desperately needed this rain!"

A user wrote: After days of scorching heat and sweaty afternoons, this rainfall feels like a blessing. It’s amazing how a few hours of rain can change the whole mood of the city. Let’s just hope it doesn’t lead to flooding in low-lying areas.

'Chennai looks so beautiful when it rains'

“There’s something so peaceful about the city during the rains. The trees look greener, the skies softer, and everything just slows down. It’s like the city takes a deep breath and relaxes for a moment,” a user said.