Chennai Braces for a Week of Sunshine with Air Quality Watch
Chennai residents can look forward to a consistently sunny and warm week starting Wednesday, January 14, 2026. The city will experience bright skies and comfortable temperatures, though air quality remains a moderate concern that requires attention.
Today's Weather Conditions in Detail
Today's weather in Chennai presents a classic January scene. Clear skies dominate the forecast, with gentle warmth prevailing throughout the day. Temperatures will reach a high of 28.6°C during the afternoon hours, while the evening will cool down to a mild low of 22.2°C. The average temperature for the day settles around 24.9°C.
Humidity levels will hover near 68%, which might create a slightly sticky feeling during late morning and afternoon periods. Despite the absence of cloud cover or rainfall, this humidity could make outdoor activities feel warmer than the thermometer suggests.
Wind conditions remain favorable with light to moderate breezes expected. Maximum wind speeds should reach around 15.8 km/h, providing some ventilation across the city. However, these winds may not completely clear accumulated pollution from local sources.
Rain is absolutely not in the forecast today. With 0 mm precipitation and a 0% chance of showers, commuters and outdoor planners can proceed confidently without weather disruptions.
The day will follow a predictable pattern. A comfortable start after sunrise at 6:35 AM will gradually transition to warmer conditions through late morning. The brightest and warmest period will occur from noon through mid-afternoon. After sunset at 6:02 PM, pleasant evening conditions will return, though coastal humidity might persist.
Air Quality Situation and Recent Trends
Air quality represents the primary concern in an otherwise pleasant forecast. Tuesday's reading showed an AQI (India) of 100, placing Chennai in the Moderate category. The corresponding US AQI measurement was 142.
Particulate matter levels drive this moderate classification:
- PM2.5 concentration reached 56 µg/m³
- PM10 levels measured 70 µg/m³
These pollution particles can cause throat irritation, watery eyes, and breathing discomfort during outdoor exertion. Children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or allergies face particular sensitivity to these conditions.
Recent trends show Chennai maintaining moderate air quality through most of the past week. A notable exception occurred on January 7 when AQI-IN spiked to 139. The continuing dry, sunny weather pattern may allow pollution to persist since rainfall isn't available to wash particles from the atmosphere. However, the forecasted breezes could prevent worst-case stagnation, especially in open coastal areas.
Practical Recommendations for Residents
Most people will find today excellent for outdoor activities, but smart timing makes a difference. Consider these suggestions:
- Schedule outdoor exercise during early morning hours after sunrise or evening periods after 6 PM when temperatures moderate
- Use sun protection including sunglasses and sunscreen throughout the day
- Carry water to stay hydrated even in January's warmth
- Consider wearing masks when commuting through busy intersections or construction zones during peak traffic hours
- Choose locations wisely - parks and seafront areas offer better airflow than confined interior roads
Individuals with respiratory sensitivities should limit moderate outdoor exertion and monitor their comfort levels closely.
Weekly Forecast Outlook
The next seven days continue the sunny pattern with minimal variation. Key highlights include:
- Consistent sunshine every day with no rainfall expected
- Stable daytime highs ranging between 28.4°C and 28.9°C
- Gradually cooling nights from 22.4°C on Thursday to approximately 20.2-20.3°C by January 19-20
- Increased winds on January 16 reaching 19.4 km/h maximum, potentially improving pollution dispersion
January 19 emerges as particularly favorable for outdoor plans. This day combines sunshine with cooler nighttime temperatures (20.3°C low) and reduced humidity compared to midweek levels.
The ongoing dry spell means dust and fine particles may continue circulating. Monitor your comfort during extended outdoor exposure and adjust activities accordingly.
Weather data referenced in this forecast comes from AQI.in monitoring sources.
