AP Sizzles, Rajahmundry @ 47° Celsius!

Andhra Pradesh is grappling with scorching heat as temperatures soared past 45 degrees Celsius on May 16, marking the third consecutive day of extreme heat in the state. Severe heatwave conditions were reported in forty mandals across 12 coastal districts and one mandal in Nandyal district. Additionally, 148 mandals in 19 coastal districts and two districts in the Rayalaseema region experienced heatwave conditions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded the highest maximum temperature of 45.2 degrees Celsius in Jangamaheswara Puram of Palnadu district, while Bapatla registered 45 degrees Celsius. Other notable temperatures (in degrees Celsius) included Kavali at 44.6, Kalavacharla at 44.5, Ongole at 44.1, Kakinada at 43.8, Amaravati at 43.5, Garikapadu at 43.5, and Nandigama at 43.5. Several other towns also witnessed high temperatures.

According to real-time data from the Automatic Weather Stations of the A.P. State Planning Development Society, temperatures soared above 47 degrees Celsius at Dowleswaram (East Godavari), Maddipadu (Prakasam), and Kothuru (Srikakulam).

The A.P. State Disaster Management Authority predicted that similar temperature levels would persist over the next three days, with no respite from the intense heat. On May 17 (Wednesday), severe heatwave conditions are not expected, but about 20 mandals in Anakapalli, Guntur, Kakinada, NTR, Palnadu, and Kadapa districts may still experience heatwave conditions. On May 18, eight mandals in Parvathipuram Manyam and Kadapa could witness heatwave conditions. Coastal districts may continue to face maximum temperatures of up to 45 degrees Celsius until May 19.

As the heatwave persists, it is crucial for the residents of Andhra Pradesh to take necessary precautions, stay hydrated, and avoid unnecessary exposure to the scorching sun.