Authorities Warn of Crop Damage and Traffic Disruptions Amid Heavy Rains
Hyderabad: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh warning for heavy rains and flash floods in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, following a depression over the Bay of Bengal that has intensified, affecting both states significantly. The depression, which is moving northward, has already caused widespread flooding in coastal regions, and more rain is expected in the coming days.
Coastal areas including Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, and the Godavari districts have been hit with up to 200 mm of rainfall, leading to localized flooding. Northern Andhra Pradesh and northeastern Telangana are also bearing the brunt of heavy rains, with more forecast until September 11. The IMD warns of ongoing risks of flash floods, particularly in urban areas, and waterlogging remains a significant concern in major cities like Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam.
Authorities have issued flood alerts and warned of squally winds reaching speeds of 50-60 km/h along the coast. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the seas, with rough conditions predicted in the Bay of Bengal until September 11. In addition, the system is expected to move toward the north Odisha-West Bengal coasts by the evening or night of September 9, continuing to impact nearby regions with heavy rainfall and strong winds.
The recent heavy rains have already caused damage in several areas, with reports of crop losses, traffic disruptions, and landslides. In Telangana, Hyderabad has seen significant waterlogging in low-lying areas, with authorities working to clear affected roads. Farmers in the affected districts have been advised to drain excess water from fields and provide mechanical support to crops wherever possible to avoid further damage.
The IMD has also cautioned that heavy rainfall will extend to Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, and north Chhattisgarh over the coming days as the weather system progresses. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as necessary.
Residents of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are advised to stay alert, follow local advisories, and take precautionary measures as the severe weather conditions continue.
