Is Chennai heading towards hottest summer?

Data compiled by IMD reveals that the city will witness a sharp increase in the mercury level in the coming days. On a lighter note, IMD officials have not ruled out the possibility of receiving light thunder showers during the summer. 

According to the IMD website, Chennai is currently witnessing a maximum temperature of 33 degree Celsius and the mercury will go up to 35 degree Celsius within a week. Met officials also predict that the temperature may touch 42 degree Celsius in April and May. 

Speaking to DT Next, SB Thampi, Deputy Director General, Regional Meteorological Centre, said, “It is visible that the city is reeling under the scorching heat. The mercury level will continue to increase until the end of summer. There is even the possibility that the temperature might touch 42 degree Celsius,” he said, adding that the city would also witness short bursts of light to heavy showers during the summer.

Residents in some parts of the city have already started claiming that they are facing drinking water shortage. “The summer has begun and along with it comes water woes. There are times when we have to wait long hours to receive drinking water. These problems usually start later in March,” said R Sellammal, a resident of Nochikuppam. 

The heavy rains the city witnessed last December helped revitalise the ground water table and the quality of water. The increasing temperature in the city will play be detrimental factor to the ground water level and quality. 

“The drastic increase in temperature will cause ground water levels to dip. There is also the possibility that the water quality will take a hit,” said a city based geologist, adding that the increase in temperature would change the nature of soil and will affect water quality. 

However, officials in the Chennai Metro Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) have stated that water availability will not be a problem this year. “All the major lakes and lesser water bodies have witness a substantial increase in water levels due to rains last year. We will be able to provide a continuous supply of drinking water,” said an official from CMWSSB. The official also assured that unlike previous years, Chennai will not face drinking water shortage this year.