VIJAYAWADA : Andhra Pradesh is already experiencing intense summer conditions right at the beginning of the season, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius at nearly 287 locations, six of which have exceeded 43 degrees Celsius.
On Monday afternoon, the highest temperature, reaching 43.48 degrees Celsius, was recorded in Banaganapalle of Nandyal district.
Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) reported that six mandals in the State had encountered severe heatwaves, with an additional 37 mandals experiencing heatwave conditions. The forecast predicts heatwave conditions in 10 mandals for Tuesday.
According to data from the planning department of APSDMA, within the 24-hour period ending 8:30 am on Monday, temperatures surpassed 40 degrees Celsius at 130 locations, with the highest daytime temperature recorded at Nandavaram in the Banaganapalle mandal of Nandyal district.
The APSDMA heatwave report indicated that among the six mandals experiencing severe heatwave conditions, four were in Anantapur district, one in Vizianagaram, and one in Nandyal district. Vepada in Vizianagaram and Devarapalle, Ravikamatham, Nathavaram, Gollugonda, and Panyam in Nandyal district experienced severe heatwave conditions.
Of the 37 mandals reporting heatwave conditions, 16 were in YSR district, nine in Nandyal district, three in Anantapur, two each in Vizianagaram and Kurnool, and one each in Srikakulam, Paravatipuram Manyam, Prakasam, and Sri Satya Sai districts.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) monthly outlook for April, Andhra Pradesh is among the most susceptible regions to increased heatwave occurrences, with above-normal heatwave days expected during the month.
The IMD emphasised the significant risks posed by elevated temperatures during heatwaves, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. These groups are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Additionally, prolonged periods of extreme heat can lead to dehydration and strain infrastructure such as power grids and transportation systems.
Symptoms of sunstroke
High body temperature (103°F or higher)
Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
Fast and strong pulse
Headache, dizziness and nausea
Confusion and losing consciousness
APSDMA issues heatwave advisory
Keep updated about weather news
Drink sufficient water as often as possible
Use sunglasses and sunscreen
Take spl care of elderly, children and the sick
Consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake if on a fluid-restricted diet
Use ORS & homemade drinks to maintain body hydration
Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, cotton clothes
Cover head with cloth, hat or umbrella while venturing outside
Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks