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🌡️ A Rising Urban Furnace Chennai, once known for its coastal breeze and tropical rhythm, has now become one of the hottest metro cities in India. In the summer of 2025, the city has recorded consistent temperatures of 42–45°C, with humidity levels crossing 80%, making it feel even worse. But why Chennai, compared to even hotter inland cities, feels more unbearable? Let’s decode the science and solutions. 🧬 The Science Behind Chennai’s Heat 1. Urban Heat Island Effect (UHI) Chennai’s rapid urbanization has led to glass buildings, concrete roads, and fewer trees. These materials trap heat during the day and release it slowly at night, making nights warmer. Coastal winds that once cooled the city are now blocked by vertical construction zones. 2. High Humidity Levels Chennai’s proximity to the Bay of Bengal means high moisture in the air. This makes sweat evaporate slowly, reducing the body’s natural cooling mechanism. Result: It feels 4–6°C hotter than the actual temperat...