Andhra Pradesh Braces for Heavy Rain as Low Pressure Over Bay of Bengal Strengthens

Andhra Pradesh is on high alert as a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal intensifies and moves closer to the coast. The Visakhapatnam Meteorological Centre has issued a red alert for five districts, warning residents of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms.

Red alert issued in five Andhra Pradesh districts

Meteorologists expect the low-pressure area to develop into a depression within the next 24 hours and make landfall between south Odisha and north Andhra Pradesh by Tuesday morning, August 19. Bharathi, Director of the Meteorological Centre, emphasized the potential for widespread heavy rain across the state.

Districts Under Alerts

Red alerts have been declared for Visakhapatnam, Anakapalle, Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema, Kakinada, and West Godavari. Orange alerts cover Srikakulam, Parvathipuram Manyam, East Godavari, Alluri Seetharamaraju, Eluru, Krishna, Bapatla, Palnadu, Prakasam, and Nandyal, while yellow alerts are in place for Kurnool, Anantapur, YSR Kadapa, Nellore, Tirupati, and Chittoor.

The Cyclone Warning Centre in Visakhapatnam has also forecasted thunderstorms with lightning, gusty winds of 30–40 km/h, and heavy showers in several coastal regions including Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalle, Kakinada, Konaseema, East Godavari, and Yanam.

Precautionary Measures

Authorities have urged residents in affected areas to stay vigilant, avoid venturing into low-lying or flood-prone zones, and follow official guidelines. Citizens are advised to secure property, limit travel, and remain updated on weather advisories as the system progresses inland.

With the monsoon season still active, the state government and disaster response teams are on standby to manage potential flooding and ensure public safety.