Andhra Pradesh Weather: March Ends Normally Despite Early Summer Onset, April Heatwaves Loom
Visakhapatnam: The summer of 2026 began with a warm start across Andhra Pradesh, marked by forecasts of potential heatwaves in March. However, the first month of the season concluded with temperatures within normal ranges, largely due to the beneficial effects of thunderstorms and light to moderate rainfall that swept through the state.
IMD Issues April Heatwave Warning for Coastal and Rayalaseema Regions
In a significant update, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) projected on Tuesday that April 2026 is likely to witness an above-normal number of heatwave days in most parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh and some areas of the Rayalaseema region. Additionally, rainfall during April is expected to be above normal, which could provide some relief but also contribute to humidity and discomfort.
The IMD's forecast highlights a shift from the relatively mild conditions experienced in March. While March saw temperatures kept in check, April is poised to bring heightened thermal stress, with maximum temperatures likely to exceed normal levels across many parts of both coastal and Rayalaseema regions. Minimum temperatures are also projected to be above normal throughout much of the state in April 2026.
March 2026: Rainfall and Thunderstorms Moderate Early Summer Heat
During March 2026, parts of the Rayalaseema region and coastal districts in Andhra Pradesh received normal rainfall in the second and third weeks. This precipitation played a crucial role in maintaining temperatures between 34°C and 38°C, preventing the escalation into severe heatwave conditions.
According to IMD data, Andhra Pradesh recorded a rainfall of 11.8 mm from March 1 to March 31, compared to the normal average of 12.2 mm. The state experienced light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by hailstorms, lightning, and gusty winds, particularly in the coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema areas for three to four days during the third week of March.
Weather officials noted that very few parts of the state encountered heatwave-like conditions for only one or two days in March. For the remainder of the month, temperatures remained normal to below normal. In some isolated instances, a few areas in Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra Pradesh recorded maximum temperatures of 40°C, but these were brief and not widespread.
District-Wise Rainfall Analysis for March 2026
The IMD provided detailed rainfall statistics for March 2026, revealing near-normal precipitation across key regions:
- Rayalaseema Region: Comprising eight districts, this area recorded 10 mm of rainfall against a normal average of 9.7 mm.
- Coastal Andhra Pradesh: Including 18 districts and Yanam, this region received 13.3 mm of rainfall, slightly below the normal average of 13.9 mm.
Among all districts, Guntur stood out with an excess rainfall of 230%, totaling 37.2 mm. This was followed by Parvathipuram Manyam, which recorded 107% excess rainfall at 55.9 mm, and Tirupati with 90% excess rainfall amounting to 16.9 mm.
Looking Ahead: Preparedness for April's Heat Challenges
As Andhra Pradesh transitions into April 2026, residents and authorities are advised to prepare for the anticipated increase in heatwave days. The IMD's warning underscores the importance of taking preventive measures, such as staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, and utilizing cooling facilities.
The contrast between March's manageable conditions and April's forecasted heatwaves highlights the dynamic nature of summer weather patterns in the region. While rainfall in March provided a temporary reprieve, the upcoming month demands vigilance and adaptation to ensure public health and safety during periods of extreme heat.
