What is the Impact of Cyclone Ditwah? Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Reviews Situation
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Home Minister V. Anitha reviewed the cyclone's impact across several districts.
- A red alert has been issued for specific areas due to anticipated severe weather.
- Immediate action is emphasized to ensure public safety and prevent loss of life.
- Officials are being mobilized to clear hazards and restore power quickly.
- Residents are urged to stay vigilant and prepared for emergencies.
Amaravati, Nov 30 (NationPress) The Home Minister of Andhra Pradesh, V. Anitha, conducted a review on Sunday regarding the conditions in four districts affected by Cyclone Ditwah in the Bay of Bengal.
In light of the red alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), she held a video conference with the district Collectors of Nellore, Tirupati, Kadapa, Chittoor, and Annamayya from the RTGS centre at the state Secretariat.
The minister urged officials to maintain heightened vigilance for the next 48 hours and to keep the public informed.
“It is our duty to ensure no lives are lost,” she emphasized, stressing the importance of responding promptly to requests for assistance made to the control room.
V. Anitha instructed the Collectors to swiftly clear any fallen tree branches and displaced hoardings that may disrupt normal activities. She also recommended the appointment of officials to avert any unforeseen incidents.
In case of power interruptions, restoration should be prioritized, she added.
The Collectors assured her that all essential measures have been undertaken, including arrangements to relocate individuals to relief camps if necessary.
Key officials participating in the video conference included RTGS Secretary Katamaneni Bhaskar, State Disaster Management Authority MD Prakhar Jain, and senior staff members.
The IMD has declared a red alert for three districts in Andhra Pradesh due to the anticipated heavy rainfall resulting from Cyclone Ditwah, affecting the southwest Bay of Bengal and neighboring coasts of North Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu.
Specifically, Nellore, Chittoor, and Tirupati in south coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema have been identified for a red alert.
Heavy to extremely heavy rain is expected in isolated areas of Prakasam, Annamayya, and YSR Kadapa in both regions, as reported by the IMD.
Additionally, heavy rain may occur in Anantapur, Sri Satya Sai, Kurnool, Nandyal, Palnadu, Bapatla, and Guntur districts.
Light to moderate rain or thundershowers are also likely in most parts of south coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema, with similar conditions expected across northern coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam.
The IMD bulletin warns of gale-force winds reaching speeds of 60-70 km/h, gusting up to 80 km/h in isolated areas of south coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema.
Squally winds with speeds of 40-50 km/h and gusts of 60 km/h may occur in isolated locations over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also expected.
The Disaster Management Authority has urged residents of Prakasam, Nellore, and Tirupati districts to remain vigilant.