Is Coastal Andhra Pradesh Prepared for Heavy Rains?
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Synopsis
Heavy rains are predicted in coastal Andhra Pradesh due to a low-pressure system over the northern Bay of Bengal. Minister V. Anitha has directed officials to take necessary precautions to safeguard lives and property. Residents are urged to remain vigilant as weather conditions develop.
Key Takeaways
- Minister V. Anitha directs vigilance among officials.
- Heavy rainfall predicted due to a low-pressure system.
- Residents urged to stay alert until Sunday.
- Emergency contact numbers provided for rescue operations.
- Fishermen advised against going to sea until Monday.
Vijayawada, July 24 (NationPress) The Andhra Pradesh Minister for Home and Disaster Management, V. Anitha, has instructed officials to remain vigilant as heavy rains are currently affecting the coastal area, caused by a low-pressure system over the northern Bay of Bengal.
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall, she held a review meeting to ensure all precautionary measures are implemented to avert loss of life and property.
The minister, alongside Prakhar Jain, Managing Director of the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), and other officials, assessed the situation in light of forecasts for severe rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds.
She visited the AP Emergency Operations Centre to evaluate the circumstances.
According to meteorological officials, a low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal is advancing towards West Bengal and the adjacent Bangladesh coast. Within the next 24 hours, it is expected to travel towards West Bengal, northern Odisha, and Jharkhand.
The minister encouraged residents to stay alert as heavy rain is anticipated in isolated areas of coastal Andhra until Sunday.
For emergency rescue operations, the control room can be reached at the toll-free numbers: 112, 1070, 18004250101.
Anitha advised fishermen to refrain from going to sea until Monday. She instructed officials to implement precautionary measures in areas prone to rain and flash floods.
The Home Minister requested district Collectors to set up warning signs at accident-prone locations.
She urged the Irrigation, Road & Buildings, and Panchayat Raj Departments to collaborate in identifying vulnerable spots.
Light to moderate rainfall is expected in various locations across Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra, with strong winds reaching speeds of 40-60 km/h along the coast.
The Visakhapatnam Cyclone Warning Centre has indicated that sea conditions may become turbulent, with high tidal waves measuring between 2.9 to 3.6 meters anticipated along the coast in the districts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, and Visakhapatnam.
As per the IMD bulletin issued at 2:30 p.m., the depression over coastal West Bengal and nearby areas of Northwest Bay of Bengal & Bangladesh has shifted west-northwest and is currently located approximately 190 km west of Khepupara (Bangladesh), around 40 km southwest of Canning (West Bengal), 50 km northeast of Sagar Island (West Bengal), and 60 km south of Kolkata (West Bengal).
This system is likely to continue moving west-northwest across Gangetic West Bengal, northern Odisha, and Jharkhand over the next 24 hours, as stated in the bulletin.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the proactive measures taken by the Andhra Pradesh government in response to heavy rainfall predictions. The emphasis on safety precautions and coordinated efforts reflects a commitment to protecting lives and properties, demonstrating effective governance in times of natural crises.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the heavy rains in coastal Andhra Pradesh?
The heavy rains are attributed to a low-pressure system over the northern Bay of Bengal.
What precautionary measures are being taken?
Officials have been directed to implement safety protocols to minimize loss of life and property.
How can residents report emergencies?
Residents can contact the control room through toll-free numbers 112, 1070, and 18004250101.
What should fishermen do during this weather?
Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea until Monday.
What are the expected wind speeds along the coast?
Wind speeds of 40-60 km/h are anticipated along the coastal region.
