Did Heavy Rain Cause Floods in Vamsadhara and Nagavali Rivers of North Coastal Andhra?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Severe flooding in Vamsadhara and Nagavali Rivers due to cyclonic storm.
- Red alert issued for districts expecting over 20 cm of rain.
- Residents urged to take precautions in affected areas.
- Emergency response teams on high alert.
- Coordination between local and state authorities is crucial.
Visakhapatnam, Oct 3 (NationPress) Intense rainfall resulting from a cyclonic storm that swept across the Odisha coast early Friday has led to significant flooding in the Vamsadhara and Nagavali Rivers in north coastal Andhra Pradesh, affecting low-lying regions.
As per the Visakhapatnam Cyclone Warning Centre, the cyclonic storm, which made landfall near Gopalpur in Odisha, is expected to transition to a north-northwest trajectory across inland Odisha and gradually diminish into a well-defined low-pressure system within the next 12 hours.
Heavy rain is anticipated in the northern coastal districts due to the cyclone's influence.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is forecasted for several locations, with isolated instances of extremely heavy rainfall expected in Srikakulam, Parvathipuram Manyam, and Vizianagaram districts, as well as Yanam.
The Meteorological Office has issued a red alert for three districts that may experience rainfall exceeding 20 centimeters, with a potential for flash floods.
The heavy downpour in neighboring Odisha has caused rivers to swell in north coastal Andhra.
Significant inflows into the Vamsadhara have flooded certain villages and agricultural lands in Srikakulam district.
The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) has warned residents in Srikakulam, Manyam, and Vizianagaram districts.
A second flood warning has been issued at Gotta Barrage in Srikakulam district, where inflow and outflow were recorded at 80,844 cusecs on Friday morning.
APSDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain has advised residents in river basin areas to exercise caution.
Tragically, a couple lost their lives due to a wall collapse in Srikakulam district early Friday. The incident occurred in Savarabattur, Mandasa mandal, with the deceased identified as Savara Budiya (58) and Rupamma (60).
Agriculture Minister K. Atchannaidu, hailing from Srikakulam district, reviewed the flood situation and instructed officials to remain vigilant for any emergencies. He contacted the District Collector and the Superintendent of Police to closely monitor the circumstances.
Previously, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu assessed the situation resulting from heavy rainfall and strong winds in north coastal Andhra, as well as the flash flood risks to three districts.
He held a video conference with the Collectors of the northern coastal Andhra districts from his official residence in Amaravati.
The Chief Minister inquired about the situation in the districts and directed officials to ensure a consistent power supply.
In light of warnings from the Meteorological Department regarding potential flooding in certain areas, he emphasized the need for the administration to remain alert and keep the public informed.
The Chief Minister also instructed officials to facilitate necessary services to residents through a 24-hour control room.