Andhra Pradesh on High Alert: Reservoirs Overflow, Cyclonic Winds Loom as Heavy Rains Lash State

Andhra Pradesh is currently grappling with the severe impact of relentless rainfall, leading to a critical situation across the state. As downpours continue to inundate various regions, the state's crucial reservoirs are witnessing unprecedented inflows, pushing many to their brim and causing some to overflow.

The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has issued a stern warning, advising extreme caution as the state prepares for intensified weather conditions over the coming days.

The water levels in major reservoirs are rising at an alarming pace. Srisailam and Nagarjuna Sagar, vital lifelines for the state, are filling up rapidly, signaling the sheer volume of water cascading into them.

Even more concerning is the status of smaller but equally important water bodies like Kandaleru, Swarnamukhi, Kalangi, Arani, and Mallimadugu, which have already breached their capacity and are now overflowing. This surge in water levels poses a significant threat to communities residing in their vicinity and downstream areas, highlighting the immediate need for vigilance and preparedness.

According to the APSDMA's latest bulletin, the coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh are poised to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next two days.

This rainfall will be accompanied by strong, gusty winds, predicted to blow at speeds ranging from 40 to 50 kilometers per hour, with gusts potentially reaching up to 60 kilometers per hour. Such conditions are conducive to localized flooding, disruption of services, and potential damage to infrastructure, urging residents to take all necessary precautions.

The warning extends its reach across a vast expanse of the state, covering numerous districts.

Nellore, Tirupati, Chittoor, Prakasam, Bapatla, Palnadu, Guntur, Krishna, NTR, Eluru, West Godavari, East Godavari, Kakinada, Konaseema, Anakapalle, Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, Manyam, Alluri Sitarama Raju, Parvathipuram, Annamayya, and YSR Kadapa are all under varying degrees of alert.

Residents in these areas are strongly advised to remain updated on weather advisories and local authority instructions.

In light of the anticipated rough sea conditions, a strict advisory has been issued to all fishermen. They are unequivocally urged to stay ashore and refrain from venturing into the sea for the next two days.

The combination of strong winds and heavy rainfall is expected to create treacherous waters, making fishing activities extremely hazardous and risking lives. Compliance with this directive is crucial for their safety.

Beyond the immediate warnings, the APSDMA has also put forth a set of crucial guidelines for the general public.

Residents are advised to avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding, secure their belongings, and ensure their mobile phones are fully charged to maintain communication during potential power outages. It is imperative to heed the advice of local authorities and disaster management teams, and to move to safer locations if instructed.

The state machinery, under the guidance of the APSDMA, is fully mobilized.

Personnel and essential machinery for rescue and relief operations have been strategically deployed across vulnerable areas. These teams are on standby to respond swiftly to any emergencies, providing assistance and support to affected communities. The focus remains on minimizing risk and ensuring the safety of all citizens as Andhra Pradesh navigates this challenging weather event.