A scorching heatwave has engulfed Andhra Pradesh, with Visakhapatnam City at its epicenter, leaving residents grappling with extreme heat for the past two days. Temperatures have soared above 40 degrees Celsius, and this blistering heat is expected to persist for the next couple of days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Disturbingly, as many as 194 mandals are predicted to encounter similar sweltering conditions. Among the most severely affected areas are Guntur, Mangalagiri, Pedakakani, Tadepalli, Thatikonda, Penamaluru, and Ibrahimpatnam.
On Monday, 15th May 2023, several regions in the former Visakhapatnam District witnessed temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Kunavaram in Alluri Sitharama Raju District topped the list with a scorching 44 degrees Celsius, while Suryapet claimed the state record with a blistering 45 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Visakhapatnam City recorded a maximum temperature of 39 degrees Celsius on the same day.
Concerned about the welfare of vulnerable individuals, the IMD has cautioned the elderly, children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers to avoid venturing out in these harsh conditions. After a brief respite from a trough-induced rainfall in the first week of May, residents of Visakhapatnam have found themselves at the mercy of this relentless heatwave. The already oppressive situation is exacerbated by high levels of humidity, adding to the misery.
The frequent power disruptions have further aggravated the situation, leaving residents with no choice but to invest in inverters to keep fans running continuously. Fearful of the blazing sun, people are reluctant to venture outdoors, resulting in deserted streets during the afternoons. However, voluntary organizations have stepped in to provide some relief by distributing buttermilk and water across the city. Despite their efforts, the challenges posed by this scorching heatwave persist, making life increasingly unbearable for the residents of Visakhapatnam City.