Mercury soars in Tamil Nadu

Chennai and its neighbourhoods sizzled as the hottest period of summer, known as 'Agni Natchathiram', a period that marks the escalation of temperature, started today with the weather office forecasting temperature in excess of 35 degree Celsius.
For its forecast valid till tomorrow, the weather office said the maximum and minimum temperature will be around 36 and 29 degree Celsius, respectively.
The hot period is expected to last till the end of the month where the mercury reaches 40 degree Celsius easily.
Residents in cities including Madurai and Coimbatore expressed concern over the continued power cuts and water shortage, especially with both southwest and northeast monsoon spells bridging deficient rain.

However, additional power from new units in Vallur, North Chennai and Mettur besides increase in wind power generation has given hope to the power managers.