Tamil Nadu heatwave drives record electricity demand

The India Meteorological Department warned that 19 districts of Tamil Nadu are experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures in Chennai expected to reach around 39 °C and high humidity increasing the risk of heat‑related illnesses. Residents, especially children, seniors and outdoor workers, were urged to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure and limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours.

The heatwave is expected to continue into Friday, with additional districts remaining under warning and rough sea conditions prompting officials to advise fishermen to stay off the water. Light rainfall may bring limited relief to some interior areas.

The extreme temperatures have led to an unprecedented surge in electricity use. On 16 July, Tamil Nadu’s power demand hit a new record of 21,724 MW, surpassing the previous July high. Officials attributed the spike to increased use of air‑conditioners and coolers amid the heatwave and noted that renewable sources, mainly wind and solar, supplied about 167 MW of the total consumption.