Weather in Chennai

Planning your day in the city of Chennai? Check out the latest weather updates, forecasts, and useful charts right in this section.

The climate in Chennai, located in the south of India, is classified as a tropical savanna type, which means hot weather year-round with clearly defined dry and wet seasons. If you love warmth, Chennai can be an excellent choice, though it is worth considering the nuances of local weather conditions when planning your trip.

Temperatures in Chennai are consistently high. The hottest period falls in April, May, and June, when the average maximum air temperature often exceeds 34-35°C. December and January are considered relatively "cool" months, yet even during this time, the average temperature remains at a comfortable level of around 25°C. The dry season usually lasts from February to May, characterized by minimal rainfall and an abundance of sunny days.

The wet season, driven by the influence of the Northeast Monsoon, typically begins in October and continues until December. During this time, the amount of precipitation and rainy days increases significantly, peaking in November. Thus, while heat is a practically constant companion for the traveller in Chennai, humidity levels and the likelihood of rain change substantially throughout the year, which is important to consider for a comfortable holiday.

The temperature regime in Chennai is characterized by consistently high readings throughout the year, which is typical for a tropical climate. The annual range of average temperatures varies from 24.9°C in January to 31.6°C in May and June. The hottest months are typically May and June, when the average maximum air temperature can reach 34.9-35.1°C, and the average daily temperature holds at the 31.6°C mark. April is also very warm with an average temperature of 30.5°C and a maximum of up to 34.2°C. The "coolest" months are considered to be January (average temperature 24.9°C, minimum 22.0°C) and December (average temperature 25.5°C, minimum 23.3°C), although the weather remains very warm even during this time.

The summer period in Chennai, covering the months from April to June, is distinguished by intense heat. Daytime highs regularly rise above 34°C, and in June can exceed 35°C. Nights bring only slight relief, with minimum temperatures in the region of 27-28°C. Although April and May are characterized by low rainfall, the number of rainy days noticeably increases in June, which can lead to increased humidity and a feeling of stuffiness despite the high temperatures. The difference between day and night temperatures in the summer months is approximately 6-7°C.

The winter months, from December to February, offer the most comfortable temperature conditions for visiting Chennai. The average daily temperature during this period fluctuates in the range of 24.9°C - 25.8°C. During the day, the air warms up to a pleasant 27.8°C - 29.5°C, and at night it drops to 22.0°C - 23.3°C. This time is characterized by lower humidity compared to the monsoon period and summer heat, making the weather mild and pleasant. Daily temperature fluctuations in winter are somewhat smaller than in summer, especially in November and December, amounting to about 4-7°C, which ensures a steady and warm climate without sudden changes.

Precipitation in Chennai has a distinctly seasonal character, dividing the year into dry and wet periods. The dry season usually falls in the first half of the year, followed by a prolonged rainy season, the intensity of which peaks in autumn.

The wettest months in Chennai are October and November. In November, the maximum amount of precipitation falls – on average 11 mm, with rains occurring approximately 21 days per month. October is also very rainy, with 6 mm of precipitation and the same number of rainy days – 21. Rains begin to intensify from June (3 mm of precipitation, 14 rainy days) and continue with high frequency in July, August, and September (4 mm of precipitation and 17-18 rainy days monthly). In these months, precipitation is likely to take the form of frequent but not always prolonged downpours.

The driest months of the year are February, March, and April. During this period, precipitation is practically unobserved (0 mm), and the number of rainy days is minimal – from 1 to 3 days per month. January and May are also characterized by very low rainfall levels (1 mm), although in January there can be up to 7 rainy days, and in May – up to 6, which may manifest as rare drizzle or short rains. This time of year is most favourable for visiting Chennai if you wish to avoid rainy weather.

When packing for Chennai, remember that a hot tropical climate awaits you all year round. The foundation of your wardrobe should consist of light, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing will help you tolerate the heat more easily. Given the high temperatures, especially from April to June when the thermometer can rise above 34-35°C, be sure to bring high SPF sunscreen, headwear (a hat or cap), and sunglasses. Comfortable open footwear, such as sandals, will be very handy, but also plan for closed, lightweight shoes for walking around the city.

From February to May, Chennai experiences a dry season with minimal rainfall, so an umbrella may not be necessary. However, starting from June and especially from October to November, the rainy season sets in. During this period, a lightweight folding umbrella or a raincoat will become your faithful companions. The number of rainy days in October and November reaches 21, so quick-drying clothes and a waterproof bag for technology can prove very useful. Even in the "cool" months, such as January and December, the average temperature holds at around 25°C, so you are unlikely to need warm clothing, perhaps just a very light cardigan or shawl for evening walks or air-conditioned rooms. The principle of layering is less relevant here due to the consistently high temperatures; it is more important to focus on protection from the sun and rain depending on the season.

Do not forget insect repellent, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors in the evening or near bodies of water. A first aid kit with basic medications, including remedies for upset stomach and fever reducers, will also not go amiss. Considering the cultural features of India, women are recommended to have clothing that covers their shoulders and knees for visiting temples and other religious sites.