August is not considered to be an ideal time to visit Chennai, India, due to several factors:
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Weather: August falls within the monsoon season in Chennai, which typically lasts from July to September. During this time, the city experiences heavy rainfall, strong winds, and high humidity levels. The average temperature in August ranges from 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F), but it can feel much hotter due to the humidity.
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Flooding: Chennai has a history of experiencing severe flooding during the monsoon season. Heavy rains can lead to waterlogging in many parts of the city, causing disruptions to transportation and daily life. The flooding can also pose safety risks, especially for tourists unfamiliar with the local conditions.
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Crowds: August is not a popular time for tourism in Chennai due to the weather and flooding risks. As a result, the city is generally less crowded during this period. However, this can also mean that some tourist attractions and services may have reduced hours or be closed altogether.
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Health Concerns: The monsoon season can bring an increased risk of waterborne diseases, such as cholera, typhoid, and leptospirosis. It’s important to take precautions to avoid consuming contaminated water or food and to practice good hygiene.
If you are considering visiting Chennai in August, it’s essential to be prepared for the weather conditions and potential disruptions. It’s advisable to check the latest weather forecast and news updates before your trip and to pack accordingly. You should also consider bringing an umbrella, raincoat, and appropriate footwear for wet conditions.
Overall, while it’s possible to visit Chennai in August, it may not be the most enjoyable or convenient time due to the weather and other factors. You may want to consider visiting during a different time of the year, such as the cooler months from November to February, when the weather is more pleasant and the risk of flooding is lower.
Weather In Chennai During August
Chennai, India, experiences hot and humid weather during August. Here’s a closer look at the typical weather conditions during this month:
Temperature:
- Average High: 34°C (93°F)
- Average Low: 28°C (82°F)
- Daily Mean: 31°C (88°F)
Rainfall:
- Average Rainfall: 130 mm (5.1 inches)
- Number of Rainy Days: 11
Humidity:
- Average Humidity: 80-90%
Wind:
- Wind Speed: 10-15 km/h (6-9 mph)
- Predominant Wind Direction: Southwest
Other Weather Conditions:
- Clear Skies: It’s common to experience clear skies during the day, with occasional cloud cover.
- Nights can be sultry and humid.
- The sea breeze from the Bay of Bengal can provide some relief from the heat during the afternoon and evening.
- Monsoon rains bring heavy showers during the month.
- Storms and thunderstorms can occur, accompanied by lightning and strong winds.
Tips for Visitors:
- Dress in light, cotton clothing to stay cool and comfortable.
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat due to the possibility of sudden showers.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors to guard against the strong sun.
- Be aware of the risk of heatstroke and take precautions to stay cool, especially during midday.
- Check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities.
Things To Do In Chennai In August
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Aadi Perukku Festival: (August 17-18, 2023) Celebrated during the Tamil month of Aadi, this festival is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Devotees gather at various Shiva temples, especially those located on riverbanks, to offer prayers and seek blessings.
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Varalakshmi Vratham: (August 2, 2023) This festival is celebrated by married women to seek blessings for the well-being and prosperity of their husbands and families. Women observe a fast, perform special poojas, and offer prayers to Goddess Lakshmi.
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Independence Day: (August 15, 2023) India celebrates its Independence Day on August 15th with great enthusiasm. The day is marked with flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, cultural performances, and patriotic speeches.
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Krishna Janmashtami: (August 24, 2023) This festival commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, one of the most popular deities in India. Devotees gather at Krishna temples, offer prayers, and participate in various cultural programs.
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Ganesha Chaturthi: (August 31 - September 9, 2023) This ten-day festival is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed god of wisdom and prosperity. Elaborately decorated idols of Ganesha are installed in homes and public places, and devotees offer prayers and sweets. The festival culminates in the immersion of the idols in water bodies.
Tourism In Chennai, India During August
- Weather: August is one of the hottest months in Chennai, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. The humidity is also high, making the weather feel even hotter. However, there is some respite from the heat in the evening when temperatures drop to around 23°C.
- Crowds: August is a relatively quiet month for tourism in Chennai, as most people prefer to visit during the cooler months of October to March. This means that you can expect to find fewer crowds at tourist attractions and lower prices for hotels and flights.
- Things to do: There are plenty of things to see and do in Chennai during August, even though the weather is hot. Some popular activities include visiting the Marina Beach, the second-longest beach in the world; exploring the historic George Town neighborhood; and taking a boat ride on the Cooum River.
- Festivals and events: August is a month of festivals and events in Chennai. The most famous is the Madras Music Season, a six-week-long festival of classical Indian music that takes place in December and January. Other popular events include the Chennai Book Fair, the Chennai Shopping Festival, and the Chennai Food Festival.
Overall, August is a good time to visit Chennai if you’re looking for a hot and humid climate, fewer crowds, and lower prices. However, if you’re not a fan of hot weather, you may want to consider visiting during the cooler months of October to March.