Heatwaves likely to intensify in coastal AP in May: IMD
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), in its monthly outlook for May, has forecast an increase in heatwave days in coastal Andhra Pradesh, along with above-normal minimum temperatures across the State.
Although May is typically the hottest month in Andhra Pradesh, the IMD said some parts of North Andhra may experience slight relief, with maximum temperatures expected to remain normal to marginally below normal. However, most other regions of the State are likely to record normal to above-normal daytime temperatures.
The report indicates a 33.5% to 45% probability of above-normal maximum temperatures in Rayalaseema. In contrast, parts of Central and North Coastal Andhra Pradesh may see normal to below-normal maximum temperatures, with a similar probability range.
Night temperatures across most parts of the State, except for a few isolated pockets, are expected to remain above normal this month, the IMD said.
The outlook also suggests a 33.5% to 45% probability of above-normal rainfall in the State. However, IMD-Amaravati Director S. Stella noted that Andhra Pradesh usually receives limited rainfall in May. “Even if rainfall turns out to be normal or slightly above normal, the overall quantum will remain low,” she said, adding that any drop in maximum temperatures would be marginal and restricted to select areas.
On Saturday, the highest temperature in the State was recorded at 45.4°C in Kopperapadu of Prakasam district. According to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA), heatwave conditions were reported in 239 mandals, mainly across Kadapa, SPSR Nellore, Tirupati, Palnadu, Prakasam, Markapuram, Nandyal, Kurnool, and Chittoor districts, where temperatures crossed 41°C.
On Sunday, heatwave conditions are likely to persist in 124 mandals, officials said.