Chennai Weather Update: Warmth, Humidity, and Air Quality Concerns Dominate Saturday
Residents of Chennai are bracing for a warm and humid Saturday on January 24, 2026, with meteorological forecasts indicating patchy rainfall and ongoing apprehensions regarding air pollution levels. The city is set to experience temperatures hovering in the mid-20s, reaching a peak of 26.8°C, accompanied by elevated humidity and an 86% probability of brief showers. This follows Friday's classification of air quality in the "poor" category, prompting health advisories for the populace.
Today's Comprehensive Weather Outlook
The day commences with notably warm and sticky conditions, as cloud build-up is anticipated to bring quick showers later. It is emphasized that the day will not feel cool at any point, with temperatures expected to remain consistently elevated. Key details include:
- A high temperature of 26.8°C and a low of 22.9°C, resulting in an average around 24.4°C.
- Humidity levels will stay high at approximately 77%, making the atmosphere feel heavier than the thermometer readings suggest.
- Winds may gust up to 27 km/h, offering some ventilation but potentially stirring road dust for commuters.
Rainfall Expectations and Timing
Rain is not forecast to be an all-day event but rather passing showers, with around 2.39 mm of precipitation possible. These showers are likely to occur in the late afternoon to early evening window, following cloud thickening. Sunrise is at 6:36 AM and sunset at 6:07 PM, with the morning stretch identified as the best outdoor period due to calmer conditions before humidity and cloud build-up intensify.
Air Quality Concerns and Detailed Data
Air quality remains a significant issue, with Friday's readings categorizing it as "Poor" on the Indian scale. The AQI (IN) was 155 (category 3), and on the US scale, it was 164, indicating unhealthy air for sensitive groups. Particulate pollutants were the main irritants:
- PM2.5 levels recorded at 76 µg/m³.
- PM10 levels recorded at 92 µg/m³.
These levels can trigger symptoms like throat irritation, coughing, or chest heaviness, especially for individuals with asthma, allergies, or cardiac conditions. Even healthy adults may experience effects during prolonged outdoor activities.
Weather's Impact on Air Quality and Resident Recommendations
Today's weather may offer mixed effects on air quality. Patchy rain could provide short-lived relief by knocking down particulates, and moderate winds might help disperse pollution. However, if showers are brief and traffic emissions remain high, air quality could fluctuate, feeling better after rain but worsening during peak hours. Recommendations for residents include:
- Dressing in light cotton clothing and keeping water handy due to sticky conditions.
- Carrying a compact umbrella or quick-dry jacket given the high rain probability.
- Considering masks for outdoor activities, particularly at signal junctions, bus stops, and flyover stretches.
- Timing workouts for cleaner-feeling windows after any short shower.
- Drivers and two-wheeler riders should watch for slick patches on roads after dry spells.
Looking Ahead: Weekly Forecast and Outdoor Planning
After today's patchy rain, Chennai's weather is expected to stabilize. Sunday, January 25, will remain overcast but largely dry, with temperatures near 26.3°C high and 23.5°C low. From Monday, January 26, onward, the city anticipates a bright run with sunny conditions through Friday, January 30. High temperatures during this period will range from 28–29°C, with nights gradually becoming more comfortable, dipping to 20–24°C. The warmest day is forecast for Monday at 29°C, while the coolest night on Friday around 20.2°C offers better conditions for evening walks.
The best days for outdoor plans are identified as Tuesday to Thursday, January 27–29, with reliable sunshine, moderate winds, and no rain forecast. For pollution-sensitive individuals, caution is advised during mornings after calm nights, as winter-like conditions can trap particulates closer to the ground. Consistent protection is recommended, given that several days in the past week have also been in the poor bracket.
