Tamil Nadu weather: Temperatures rise, fog expected in 9 districts this week

Tamil Nadu is expected to enter a phase of gradually increasing daytime temperatures over the next several days, as calm weather conditions prevail across the state and its neighbouring regions, according to weather officials on Sunday.

According to the latest forecast from the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC), Chennai, maximum temperatures are likely to rise by about 1–2°C above the seasonal average through at least February 11, marking a transition toward warmer late-winter weather.

The week ahead is forecast to be largely dry, with minimal rainfall expected across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal, and no significant localized showers predicted.

This outlook stems from a continued absence of weather systems such as low-pressure areas or cyclonic circulations, allowing dry continental winds to dominate much of the state’s weather pattern.

In Chennai, conditions through the early part of the week are expected to remain partly cloudy, with little change in minimum temperatures.

The city is likely to record maximums around 30–31°C with early-morning mist or haze possible at times, while minimum temperatures are anticipated to hold steady at around 21–22°C.

While the days are poised to feel warmer than usual for this period of the year, several districts are forecast to experience pronounced morning fog or shallow mist in the early hours.

The RMC has issued advisories for at least nine districts, especially in hilly and inland areas, where visibility could be significantly reduced in the pre-dawn and early morning periods.

Districts likely to see morning fog include the Nilgiris hills, along with interior regions such as Dindigul, Salem, Erode, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Tirupattur, Vellore and Ranipet.

Commuters and motorists have been cautioned to maintain extra care on highways and rural roads during these foggy conditions to avoid accidents.

The rising daytime temperatures and largely dry skies are typical of the state’s late-winter climate, which often precedes the hotter pre-summer months.

Forecasters say the period of increasing heat is part of the seasonal transition, with humidity levels also contributing to warm and sultry afternoons, especially in coastal areas like Chennai and along the eastern plains.

Officials have reminded residents to be mindful of heat and visibility conditions over the coming days. Children, older adults, outdoor workers, and those with health conditions are advised to stay well-hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours and take precautions against heat stress. Drivers are urged to reduce speed and use fog lamps during low-visibility conditions.

With high-pressure and dry air masses continuing to dominate the region’s weather pattern, Tamil Nadu’s population can expect a relatively dry and warm stretch in the days ahead, a state of weather that aligns with the seasonal climate transition from winter to early summer in South India.