Heat wave to persist in andhra

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) on Saturday warned of contrasting weather conditions, with severe heat waves likely in 11 mandals and heat wave conditions in 64 mandals, even as rain accompanied by lightning is expected in several districts over the next two days.

APSDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain said temperatures are likely to ease slightly from Sunday, though intense heat and thunderstorms will continue in different parts of the state. Maximum temperatures of 45–46°C are forecast in parts of Polavaram, Kakinada, Eluru and Krishna districts, while several districts in coastal and central Andhra may record 43–44°C. Temperatures of 40–42°C are expected in parts of north coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema.

A cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Tamil Nadu coast is likely to bring light to moderate rain with lightning in Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai, YSR Kadapa, Annamayya and Chittoor districts on Saturday and Sunday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are also expected elsewhere in the state.

On Friday, the highest temperature of 45°C was recorded at Kommipadu in Nellore district, while temperatures crossed 42°C in 51 mandals across 10 districts.

The APSDMA advised people to avoid standing under trees, electric poles and hoardings during thunderstorms. Farmers and cattle rearers were urged to move to safe locations when thunder is heard or dark clouds appear.

People were also asked to avoid outdoor travel between 11 am and 4 pm, carry drinking water and remain alert to heat-related risks. Elderly people, pregnant women, lactating mothers and those with heart ailments, diabetes or blood pressure issues were advised to take extra precautions and stay hydrated by consuming water, lemon juice, buttermilk and coconut water.