Rainfall and wind stabilize Chennai air quality ahead of Deepavali

Rainfall and favorable wind conditions have helped maintain satisfactory air quality levels in Chennai ahead of Deepavali celebrations. On Saturday evening, the city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 72, with monitoring stations reporting levels ranging from 54 in Perungudi to 92 in Velachery.

The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has forecast continued rainfall and thunderstorms across parts of Tamil Nadu. Heavy rainfall is expected in eight districts, including Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, and Kanniyakumari, potentially coinciding with Sunday festivities.

Weather patterns are being influenced by a trough extending from the southeast Arabian Sea and Kerala towards south interior Karnataka, bringing thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds to various regions. In Chennai, moderate rainfall and thunderstorms are expected to continue through the weekend.