Thunder, Lightning and Scorching Temperatures Forecast Across AP

Andhra Pradesh is set to experience a spell of thunderstorms and light-to-moderate rainfall over the next two days, but the showers are unlikely to provide immediate relief from the intense heat gripping large parts of the state.

According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) , a trough extending from Karnataka to the Andhra coast is creating favourable conditions for rain accompanied by thunder, lightning and gusty winds in isolated areas. Districts including Alluri Sitharama Raju, Polavaram, Kurnool, Nandyal, Anantapur, Sri Sathya Sai and YSR Kadapa are expected to receive scattered rainfall during this period.

The state is currently witnessing a sharp contrast in weather conditions, with thunderstorm activity developing in some regions while severe heatwave conditions continue elsewhere. APSDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain said this mixed weather pattern is likely to persist for the next couple of days.

Heat stress remains a major concern across Andhra Pradesh. On Monday, 56 mandals reported severe heatwave conditions, while another 67 mandals experienced moderate heatwave intensity. The districts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, Alluri Sitharama Raju, Kakinada, West Godavari, Eluru, Krishna, Prakasam, Anantapur and Chittoor are among the areas expected to face the strongest heat conditions.

Weather officials have forecast maximum temperatures ranging from 42°C to 44°C in several coastal and north Andhra districts, including Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Kakinada, East and West Godavari, Eluru, Krishna and Prakasam. Temperatures between 40°C and 42°C are likely in districts such as Konaseema, NTR, Guntur, Bapatla, Palnadu, Kurnool, Nandyal, Anantapur, YSR Kadapa and Chittoor.

The intensity of the ongoing heatwave was evident on Sunday when Karedu in Prakasam district recorded the state's highest temperature of 43.5°C . Other hotspots included Nandanamarella in Markapuram mandal at 43.4°C, while Pittalavanipalem in Bapatla district and Pedaparupudi in Krishna district registered 43.2°C each.

Authorities have advised residents to remain vigilant as the state faces both extreme heat and thunderstorm risks. Special precautions have been recommended for senior citizens, pregnant women, nursing mothers and people suffering from heart disease, diabetes or hypertension . Officials have urged people to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours.

The disaster management authority also warned people against taking shelter under trees, electricity poles or large hoardings during thunderstorms. Farmers and cattle herders have been advised to move to safe locations immediately if dark clouds gather and thunder is heard, as lightning strikes remain a significant hazard during the pre-monsoon season.