Visakhapatnam: Parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema are grappling with hot, humid, and highly uncomfortable weather, as oppressive humidity triggers excessive sweating and dehydration. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for five days, urging residents to take necessary precautions.
Current Temperature and Humidity Levels
Maximum temperatures are hovering between 40°C and 42°C, while relative humidity levels ranging from 65% to 80% have made conditions particularly harsh in coastal Andhra in recent days. With humidity around 75%, the “feels-like” temperature is 3 to 4 degrees higher than the actual reading.
Heatwave Alert Period
The IMD on Monday issued a heatwave alert for parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh from May 20 to 24, warning of a gradual rise in day temperatures over the next few days. The medical and health department, along with the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), cautioned that soaring temperatures and high humidity pose significant health risks.
Health Advisory
Vulnerable groups, including those with heart ailments, diabetes, and hypertension, have been advised to avoid sun exposure. Officials also warned that infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and the sick face heightened health risks. People are advised to avoid going outdoors during peak hours from 11 am to 3 pm, as heat cramps and heat rashes are likely during this period.
District-wise Forecast
On Tuesday (May 19), hot and humid weather is forecast over south coastal Andhra Pradesh. On Wednesday (May 20), heatwave conditions are likely at isolated places in Dr B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, NTR, Krishna, Guntur, Palnadu, Bapatla, Prakasam, and Nellore districts.
Severe heatwave conditions are expected at isolated places in Kakinada, Yanam, Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, NTR, Krishna, Guntur, Palnadu, Bapatla, Prakasam, and Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore districts from May 21 to 23. Heatwave conditions are also likely in Srikakulam, Parvathipuram Manyam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Alluri Sitharama Raju, and Anakapalle during the same period.
On May 24, heatwave conditions are likely at isolated places in Konaseema, East Godavari, West Godavari, Eluru, NTR, Krishna, Guntur, Palnadu, Bapatla, Prakasam, and Nellore.
Rayalaseema Forecast
Maximum temperatures in Rayalaseema are likely to range between 40°C and 43°C over the next five days. Weather officials noted that while conditions may be tolerable for the general public, vulnerable groups face health risks.
