Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Forecast for Visakhapatnam: IMD

Visakhapatnam witnessed overcast skies and gusty winds on Wednesday, June 17, as rain clouds moved in from the Bay of Bengal, signalling a break from the sweltering heat that had prevailed over the coastal city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast for thunderstorms and strong winds in north coastal Andhra Pradesh for the coming days, as the southwest monsoon advances over the region.

The change in weather came after a hot and humid afternoon. The IMD's Kailasagiri station recorded a maximum temperature of 35.6 degrees Celsius earlier in the day. By afternoon, dark monsoon clouds could be seen gathering from the sea, and the wind picked up pace while the sky remained grey. Videos shared by residents on social media showed the dramatic cloud formation over the city's coastline.

According to the latest bulletin from the Meteorological Centre, Amaravati, light to moderate rain or thundershowers are likely at one or two places in north coastal Andhra Pradesh. The IMD has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated locations, with gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour. Additionally, hot and humid conditions are expected to persist at isolated pockets, despite the overall cooling effect of the monsoon clouds.

Rainfall data from the Andhra Pradesh Directorate of Economics and Statistics (APDES) revealed that by 2 p.m. on Wednesday, some parts of Visakhapatnam had already received light showers. The Government Eye Hospital station in Seethammadhara recorded 3.11 mm, while the Town Service Reservoir gauge measured 1.25 mm. However, many of the city's mandals, including Maharanipeta, Mulagada, and Anandapuram, did not report any measurable rainfall during this period, even as the winds continued and the cloud cover persisted.

While Visakhapatnam city saw only light drizzle, the northern districts of the state experienced heavier downpours. The APDES data showed that Vepada in Vizianagaram district received the highest rainfall in the state during the six-hour window from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., recording 88.35 mm. Gandhavaram in Chodavaram mandal of Anakapalli district received 64 mm, and Devarapalle recorded 55 mm. In Srikakulam district, the towns of Kotabommali, Tekkali, and Santhabommali recorded between 37 mm and 45 mm of rainfall.

The arrival of the monsoon brings a much-needed respite from the high temperatures and humidity that characterise the pre-monsoon period in coastal Andhra Pradesh. However, the season also brings hazards such as lightning strikes, strong winds that can uproot trees and damage power lines, and localised flooding in low-lying areas. The IMD's forecasts are crucial for farmers, fishermen, and urban planners to mitigate risks and prepare for eventualities.

Authorities advise residents to stay updated with official weather bulletins and avoid relying on unverified predictions that may circulate on social media. During thunderstorms, it is recommended to stay indoors away from windows, avoid using electrical appliances, and refrain from standing under trees or open structures. Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing into the sea during periods of rough weather.

The IMD's forecast covers the entire north coastal Andhra Pradesh belt, including the districts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, East Godavari, and West Godavari beside Visakhapatnam. The monsoon is expected to remain active over the region in the coming days, with intermittent showers and thunderstorms likely to continue. Officials will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as required.