Vijayawada, November 27, 2024 – Andhra Pradesh is bracing for heavy rainfall as a cyclonic storm brewing in the Bay of Bengal is expected to impact the region for the next three days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘Number 1’ warning at all ports in the state, advising caution. The Deep Depression currently over the Southwest Bay of Bengal has been moving north-northwest at a speed of 12 km/h and is forecast to intensify into a cyclonic storm by November 27.
At 17:30 hours IST on Tuesday, the depression was located about 520 km south-southeast of Nagapattinam, 640 km south-southeast of Puducherry, and 720 km south-southeast of Chennai. The storm is expected to continue moving north-northwest, with a likely impact on the Tamil Nadu coast while skirting Sri Lanka in the following days. The IMD predicts that the system will further intensify before making landfall, bringing widespread rainfall to southern parts of the state.
The Cyclone Warning Centre in Visakhapatnam has forecast heavy rains in districts like Nellore and Tirupati on Wednesday, followed by Annamayya, Prakasam, Chittoor, Nellore, and Tirupati on Thursday. Isolated parts of North Coastal districts are also expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall. Local authorities have been put on high alert to manage the weather’s impact and ensure preparedness in the event of heavy rains or flooding.
In response to the impending cyclone, Home and Disaster Management Minister Vangalapudi Anitha held a review meeting, urging officials to take immediate steps to minimize the impact on life and property. The State Disaster Management Authority has issued alerts, and Special Chief Secretary (Disaster Management) RP Sisodia has instructed district administrations to stay vigilant in the coming days.
