Vijayawada: Relentless heatwave conditions continued to scorch Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday, pushing temperatures to dangerous levels and disrupting normal life across several districts. Roads wore a deserted look during afternoon hours as people avoided stepping out amid fears of heatstroke and dehydration.
Highest Temperatures Recorded
According to data released by the AP State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), Mulakuduru village in Guntur district recorded the highest temperature in the state at a blistering 47.7 degrees Celsius. Gurazala in Palnadu district followed closely with 47.6 degrees, while Kanchikacherla in NTR district and Inkollu in Bapatla district recorded 47.3 degrees each.
Widespread Severe Heat
Officials said temperatures crossed 44 degrees Celsius in as many as 125 mandals spread across 14 districts. The worst-hit regions included Palnadu with 19 mandals, Bapatla with 17, Prakasam with 16, NTR with 14, Krishna with 13, and Guntur and Markapuram regions with 11 mandals each, witnessing severe heat conditions.
Impact on Daily Life
The intense weather conditions forced many residents to remain indoors, especially during peak afternoon hours. Markets, roads and commercial areas that are usually crowded appeared unusually quiet under the harsh sun. In view of the escalating temperatures, the Andhra Pradesh government issued special directions to builders and construction agencies, instructing them not to deploy labourers under direct sunlight after 11 am. The move is aimed at preventing heat-related illnesses among workers.
Official Advisories
APSDMA managing director Prakhar Jain advised people to avoid travel between 11 am and 4 pm unless absolutely necessary. He urged citizens stepping outdoors to carry drinking water and remain alert for sudden thunderstorms accompanied by lightning.
Forecast for Coming Days
Officials also warned that severe heatwave conditions are likely to continue. APSDMA forecast severe heatwave impact in 68 mandals on Wednesday and 81 mandals on Thursday, with several more areas expected to experience heatwave conditions over the next two days.
