The Southwest Monsoon has officially reached the Andaman coast, arriving four days earlier than expected. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), it is on track to hit the Kerala coast by the end of this month. This early onset boosts the chances of monsoon rains spreading across the Telugu States, including Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, where rainfall has already begun.
In Vijayawada, heavy rain started late Thursday night, causing water to flood many low-lying areas. Streets in some parts saw water levels rise to knee height. Strong winds and thunder added to the chaos in several regions.
Rainfall measurements show:
– 54 mm in Amalapuram (Konaseema district)
– 54 mm in Nidamarru (Eluru district)
– 42 mm in Kajulur (Kakinada district)
– 31.5 mm in Thalapathiguda (Alluri district)
Meanwhile, many coastal areas are battling high temperatures. Due to dry northwesterly winds, day temperatures have risen 2 to 4 degrees above normal. The hottest spots were Inkollu in Bapatla district at 42.6°C and Vinukonda in Palnadu district at 42.5°C.
The State Disaster Management Authority has issued a warning. On Friday and Saturday, residents should prepare for sudden heavy showers along with scorching heat above 40°C. The IMD also predicts thunderstorms and gusty winds across Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra.
Here’s what to expect in different districts:
– Moderate to heavy rain: Alluri, Manyam, Anakapalle, Kakinada, Chittoor
– Light to moderate rain: Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Guntur, Nandyal, Kurnool, Anantapur, Kadapa, Sri Sathya Sai
– Light showers: Remaining districts
In Telangana, thick clouds have gathered, indicating evening downpours. On Thursday night, Hyderabad saw intense rainfall, flooding areas like Jubilee Hills, Banjara Hills, and Mehdipatnam. The IMD has issued an orange alert for 12 districts, warning of thunder, lightning, and heavy rain.
Light to moderate rain is likely to continue across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Coastal Andhra, Rayalaseema, and Yanam through Saturday. Wind speeds may reach 30 to 50 km/h.
Officials urge the public to stay alert and take safety measures during this period of unpredictable weather.
