Rain brings relief from heat in Visakhapatnam; schools to remain shut as heavy showers forecast
Persistent rain under the influence of a depression over the Bay of Bengal brought relief from the heat here on Tuesday, even as waterlogging and overflowing drains disrupted movement in several parts of the city.
With heavy rainfall forecast for Wednesday, all educational institutions in the district have been directed to remain closed on September 23.
Rain began intensifying across the city from Monday night, with moderate to heavy showers reported in several areas through Tuesday. The rainfall brought down temperatures and is expected to improve groundwater recharge and water levels in local water bodies if the wet spell continues over the next few days.
Data from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Government of Andhra Pradesh, showed that Madhurawada recorded the highest rainfall in the city and surrounding areas, with 70 mm between 8.30 am and 8 pm on Tuesday. Gambheeram recorded 65 mm, while Pendurthi and Kapuluppada received 63 mm each.
Chavulamadham recorded 57 mm, while Butchirajupalem in Gopalapatnam, Yendada, Anandapuram and Sheela Nagar received 56 mm each. Bheemunipatnam recorded 54 mm, followed by Seethammadhara at 47 mm, Pedagantyada at 46 mm and Simhachalam Hill at 42 mm.
According to the district administration, the average rainfall across the district on Tuesday was 66.2 mm. The average rainfall recorded since September 21 stood at 82.2 mm.
The rain affected traffic movement in several parts of the city, with motorists and parents accompanying schoolchildren facing difficulties during the morning and afternoon hours.
Several roads were inundated, while drains overflowed at some locations. Water accumulation was also reported along stretches of NH-16.
The rainfall exposed potholes in several areas, including Sheela Nagar, Tunglam, Kurmannapalem, Sujatha Nagar, Pendurthi, Vepagunta, Akkireddipalem and Gajuwaka. Patches where road restoration work had been undertaken following underground drainage works became slippery, adding to the difficulties faced by motorists.
Despite the disruption, the rain was welcomed by many residents after the prevailing spell of heat. Several people stepped out to capture photographs and videos of the showers, with the visuals subsequently being shared on social media.
Along the coast, a high tide was witnessed amid rough sea conditions. At RK Beach, community guards advised people who had gathered near the shoreline to leave the beach area as a precaution.
With the depression expected to intensify and heavy rainfall likely over the next few days, District Collector M. Abhishikt Kishore reviewed the preparedness of various departments on Tuesday evening.
The Collector directed officials to remain on high alert and ensure that necessary precautionary measures were taken in view of the forecast.