1. Equatorial location: Chennai is located near the equator, which means it receives direct sunlight throughout the year. This results in high temperatures, especially during the summer months.
2. Proximity to the Bay of Bengal: The Bay of Bengal acts as a heat reservoir, releasing moisture and heat into the atmosphere. This contributes to the high humidity and temperature in Chennai.
3. Urbanization and infrastructure: Chennai is a densely populated city with a large number of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure. These structures absorb and retain heat, further increasing the ambient temperature.
4. Lack of green cover: The lack of green spaces and trees in Chennai reduces the amount of evapotranspiration, which is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere. This contributes to the high temperatures in the city.
5. Wind patterns: Chennai experiences a prevailing easterly wind during most of the year. These winds bring warm air from the Bay of Bengal, contributing to the high temperatures.
6. El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO): ENSO is a climate pattern that affects the Pacific Ocean and has a global impact on weather patterns. During El Niño events, the Pacific Ocean becomes warmer, which can lead to changes in the global atmospheric circulation and increased temperatures in Chennai.
7. Climate change: The long-term increase in global temperatures due to climate change is also a contributing factor to the rising temperatures in Chennai.
These geographical factors combine to make Chennai a hot city throughout the year.