Chennai weather: Sunny skies, warm temperatures; AQI remains poor

Chennai is poised for a bright, sunny, and largely uneventful weather day on Thursday, January 22, 2026, with temperatures anticipated to climb into the late 20s and no significant risk of rain throughout the day. However, air quality remains a point of attention, as yesterday's readings placed it in the "poor" category, a condition that may persist today, particularly in areas with heavy traffic and during the calmer early morning hours. Looking ahead, the city can expect a predominantly stable week of warm days and mild nights, though Saturday presents a notable exception with a higher chance of rain.

The city is set for sunny skies, with temperatures expected to reach a maximum of 27.7°C and a minimum of 19.9°C. This range is projected to keep the day warm without reaching extreme levels. The average humidity for the day is approximately 62%, indicating that the sun's intensity will be noticeable by late morning. Despite this, conditions are not expected to become uncomfortably muggy. Winds are forecast to pick up to about 22.7 km/h, providing air movement that contributes to comfort and aids in dispersing near-ground pollution.



Rain is not anticipated for the day, with 0 mm precipitation recorded and a 0% chance of rain. This allows for planning outdoor activities, errands, and commutes without concern for precipitation. Clear skies are expected to lead to a more pronounced increase in warmth after mid-morning. By the afternoon, seeking shaded areas and maintaining hydration will be more crucial than carrying an umbrella. As evening approaches, the combination of diminishing sunlight and a consistent breeze is expected to create more comfortable outdoor conditions.


For those planning their daily schedule, sunrise is at 6:36 AM, and sunset is at 6:06 PM. This provides a substantial period of daylight suitable for various activities, including school runs, site visits, and late-afternoon exercise. Additionally, tonight marks a Waxing Crescent moon phase, with moonrise occurring at 9:01 AM.

Air Quality Concerns

Air quality on Wednesday, January 21, in Chennai was recorded with an AQI (India) of 161. This measurement falls into the "poor" category. The corresponding US AQI equivalent was 159, which also indicates air that is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.


The primary contributors to the elevated air pollution were particulate pollutants. PM2.5 levels were measured at 78, and PM10 levels reached 98, with carbon monoxide (CO) recorded at 490.


The finer pollutant that tends to irritate the eyes and throat and can trigger breathing discomfort, especially for children, older adults, and anyone with asthma.


PM10 adds to dust-related irritation, often felt during commutes and in construction-heavy stretches.


With the day remaining dry and sunny, there will be no natural cleansing effect from rain. The article clarifies that pollution will not be washed out by rain.


However, the moderate winds are expected to assist in dispersing localized pockets of poor air. This suggests that conditions may feel improved away from areas of high congestion, even if the baseline remains elevated.

Health and Safety Recommendations

Individuals spending time outdoors during the midday hours are advised to take precautions. Sunglasses and water are your best friends. This advice is given because sunny skies and peak temperatures between 27°C and 28°C can lead to dehydration more rapidly than anticipated.


For commuters, particularly those traveling on arterial roads, wearing a well-fitted mask is recommended. This can help reduce exposure to particulate matter, which was at high levels yesterday. When planning long outdoor workouts, it is advisable to schedule them for early morning or after sunset. These times typically offer reduced heat stress. It is also suggested to choose routes away from idling traffic to minimize the intake of pollutants.

Week Ahead Forecast

The broader weather pattern for the upcoming week is expected to remain largely consistent. This includes warm days, mild nights, and abundant sunshine. Friday, January 23, is forecast to be sunny, with temperatures reaching 28.5°C for the maximum and 20.2°C for the minimum, accompanied by only a trace amount of rain at 0.09 mm.


A specific weather alert is noted for Saturday, January 24. The forecast indicates a shift to patchy rain in nearby areas and a significant 89% chance of rain, with temperatures ranging from 28.1°C to 22.4°C. The article advises to keep a compact umbrella handy and expect brief wet spells rather than an all-day washout.


From Sunday, January 25, through Wednesday, January 28, Chennai is projected to experience a period of partly cloudy to sunny weather. High temperatures during this stretch are expected to hover around 29°C, with nighttime temperatures in the 22–23°C range. For those planning outdoor gatherings or sports activities, Sunday or Monday are highlighted as the most favorable days. These days are described as the easiest bets—dry, warm, and comparatively predictable.


The data referenced in this article is sourced from AQI.in.