Severe heatwave grips Tamil Nadu — temperatures cross 100°F in 17 locations; TVK government activates Heatwave Action Plan

Summer heat continues to intensify across Tamil Nadu, with temperatures crossing 100°F in at least 17 locations, causing widespread discomfort among residents.

The Regional Meteorological Centre warned that heatwave conditions are likely to persist in several coastal districts over the next two days. With the Kathiri Veyil season at its peak, Chennai is expected to record temperatures close to 42°C (108°F), among the highest this season. Weather officials noted that Meenambakkam touched nearly 107°F on Wednesday, making it one of the hottest days recorded in the city this year.

The rising temperatures have triggered concerns across coastal Tamil Nadu, including Puducherry and Karaikal. Kerala, Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka and parts of Andhra Pradesh are also likely to receive light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms and gusty winds till May 28.

The TVK government has activated its Heatwave Action Plan across all 38 districts, directing health officials to maintain readiness at hospitals, and has set up water distribution points at key bus stands and public locations across the state.