Andhra Pradesh Records First 40°C of 2026 as Heat Intensifies
For the first time in 2026, the mercury has crossed the 40°C mark in Andhra Pradesh, with Kavali town in Nellore district recording the season's highest temperature of 40°C on Friday, March 6. This early surge in heat signals a potentially intense summer ahead for the state.
Widespread Temperature Rise Across the State
Parts of Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh (CAP) experienced maximum temperatures between 38°C and 39°C on Friday, which is two to four degrees above the normal range for this time of year. These readings surpassed Thursday's maximum temperatures, indicating a rapid warming trend.
Key temperature recordings from various districts include:
- Ongole in Prakasam district: 39.8°C
- Nellore and Kurnool: 39.6°C each
- Amaravati: 39.4°C
- Kadapa: 39.1°C
- Tirupati and Nandyal: 39°C each
- Bapatla: 38.9°C
- Gannavaram and Anantapur: 38.6°C each
IMD Forecast and Future Predictions
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that the maximum temperatures are likely to rise further, with many parts of the state potentially touching 40°C over the next two days. A slight dip is expected in the second week of March, but the overall trend remains warm.
According to the IMD, maximum temperatures are likely to be above normal by 2-3°C over Rayalaseema from Saturday. While no large temperature spikes are anticipated over Rayalaseema thereafter, March as a whole is expected to see normal to above-normal maximum temperatures across many parts of the state.
Heatwave alerts have been issued for specific districts, including Guntur, Bapatla, Palnadu, and Prakasam, which may experience one to two days of heatwaves in March. Additionally, overall rainfall activity in the state during March is predicted to be below normal, which could exacerbate the dry and hot conditions.
Residents are advised to take necessary precautions against the heat, such as staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and using cooling measures to mitigate health risks associated with high temperatures.
