Coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh, including Visakhapatnam, Anakapalle, Kakinada, Tuni, Guntur, Eluru, Rajahmundry, and Vijayawada, have been grappling with oppressive humidity for the past four to five days. Although temperatures have remained between 35°C and 39°C, relative humidity has peaked at 70% to 85% in the mornings and stayed around 60% by evening, causing significant discomfort for residents.
Residents Report Suffocating Conditions
V Ganesh, a resident of Visakhapatnam, described the conditions as unbearable. "The heat and humidity are quite oppressive, and even in the shade, it feels like we are suffocating; the sweating doesn’t stop, and there is no relief unless you stay in an air-conditioned room," he said. He noted that many elderly people and children have fallen ill due to the weather. Although some parts of the city experienced rainfall in the second week of June, hot and humid conditions quickly returned.
Delayed Rains and El Niño Impact
Weather officials attribute the prolonged humidity to the El Niño phenomenon, which has delayed rains in several parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh. In contrast, parts of the Rayalaseema region have been receiving light to moderate rains over the past few days. The weather agency has forecast heavy rainfall in isolated parts of Rayalaseema on Sunday and Monday, while hot and humid conditions are expected to persist in some coastal areas.
Thunderstorm and Gusty Wind Forecast
The Indian Meteorological Department has predicted thunderstorms in parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema over the next two days. Gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph are likely at isolated places over Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema. These conditions may provide some relief, but the humidity is expected to remain high.
Mixed Weather in Tribal Districts
The tribal-dominated Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) and Parvathipuram Manyam districts have been experiencing mixed weather conditions, with fog in the morning, sunny afternoons, and moderate rainfall in the evenings. M Prasad, a resident of Paderu, said, "The rains brought some relief from the hot weather, and we expect the rainfall to continue in the coming days."
No Immediate Respite for Coastal Residents
Despite the forecast of thunderstorms and gusty winds, residents of coastal Andhra Pradesh are unlikely to see an immediate end to the oppressive humidity. The combination of high temperatures and elevated moisture levels continues to pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children. Authorities advise staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
