Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam Record Warmer Nights as Cloud Cover Traps Heat

Residents in Chennai’s Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam neighbourhoods have experienced consistently warmer night temperatures over the past several days due to persistent cloud cover and high humidity. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and private weather forecasters reported that these atmospheric conditions have trapped daytime land heat, leading to increased "feels-like" temperatures and discomfort across the area.

On Monday, just before sunrise, Nungambakkam recorded a minimum temperature of 28.5°C, while Meenambakkam recorded 28.1°C. Both of these readings were approximately 1.3 degrees Celsius above the normal temperature for this period.

As the day progressed, the heat intensified. Nungambakkam went on to record a maximum temperature of 38.6°C, and Meenambakkam reached 38.7°C. These daytime temperatures were around 2.6 degrees Celsius above normal.

According to meteorologists, the elevated night temperatures are linked to a depression over the northwest Bay of Bengal. The cloud cover associated with this weather system spread over Chennai, while high atmospheric moisture reduced the escape of heat absorbed by the land during the daytime.

Private weather forecasters explained the science behind the phenomenon, stating that clouds and water vapour act like a blanket. They absorb a portion of the heat radiated from the Earth's surface and send some of it back down, keeping the nights warmer than usual. Forecasters indicated that these warm nights are likely to continue until the weather system over the Bay of Bengal weakens or moves inland.

For Tuesday, the IMD issued a bulletin forecasting that the city and its suburbs may receive light rainfall. The sky is expected to remain partly cloudy, with maximum temperatures predicted to range between 37°C and 38°C, and minimum temperatures expected to hover between 28°C and 29°C.