Chennai's suburbs are experiencing a significant heatwave, with temperatures surpassing 40°C for the second day, as reported by the Meenambakkam observatory. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that this could be the start of a particularly intense summer, forecasting four to five heatwave days throughout May. Coastal districts from Tiruvallur to Ramanathapuram are likely to face similar conditions, with some areas potentially experiencing heatwave conditions for up to eight days. Despite the scorching temperatures, the IMD anticipates above-normal rainfall this month, which may provide some relief from the heat. On Friday, temperatures recorded at Nungambakkam and Meenambakkam were 36.6°C and 40°C, respectively, both exceeding normal levels. The rise in temperature is attributed to hot and dry northerly winds from the Rayalaseema region. Residents can expect hot and humid weather to persist, with maximum temperatures projected between 39-40°C and minimums around 29°C.