IMD Warns of Thunderstorms and Strong Winds in Coastal Andhra Pradesh Until August 18

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated locations over Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam from August 14 to August 17. Additionally, strong surface winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph are expected at isolated places across Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Rayalaseema through August 18.

The district-level advisory indicates that several districts in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh and South Coastal Andhra Pradesh will experience thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds during the first four days of this period. In the Rayalaseema region, strong surface winds are predicted at isolated spots, with speeds varying between 30 and 50 kmph depending on the district and the day.

Specifically, in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, the districts of Srikakulam, Parvathipuram Manyam, Vizianagaram, and Alluri Sitharamaraju are under thunderstorm and lightning warnings through August 17. Visakhapatnam will see similar conditions until August 16, followed by a wind warning of 30 to 40 kmph on August 17. Anakapalli has a thunderstorm warning through August 16. Meanwhile, Kakinada, East Godavari, Yanam, and Dr B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema are likely to experience winds of 30 to 40 kmph over the five-day period.

In South Coastal Andhra Pradesh, thunderstorms are predicted in NTR, Krishna, and Palnadu districts through August 17. Bapatla and SPSR Nellore are also covered by thunderstorm warnings on some of the initial days, while other districts have varying wind warnings.

The seven-day forecast also indicates isolated light to moderate rain or thundershowers in several districts, with lighter rain expected in parts of the state on subsequent days. Visakhapatnam is likely to receive light to moderate rain or thundershowers through August 16, followed by light rain on August 17 and 18.

On Friday, daytime temperatures remained above normal across the region. Visakhapatnam recorded 34.5°C, which is 3°C above the normal average, while Kalingapatnam registered 36.1°C, 4.1°C above normal. The highest maximum temperature among monitored stations was recorded at Jangamaheswarapuram, reaching 38.8°C.

These weather conditions are typical for the monsoon season, but the IMD's warnings serve as a reminder for residents and local authorities to remain cautious. Thunderstorms and strong winds can disrupt transportation, damage property, and pose risks to public safety. It is advisable for people in the affected areas to stay indoors during severe weather, secure loose objects, and avoid open fields and tall structures during lightning.

Fishermen and those involved in coastal activities are particularly advised to heed the IMD's warnings and avoid venturing into the sea until conditions improve. Local administrations have been urged to remain prepared for any weather-related emergencies.

The IMD continues to monitor the situation and will issue updates as new data becomes available. Residents are encouraged to follow official weather bulletins and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.