Two Fatalities Reported in Andhra Pradesh Due to Lightning Amid Heavy Rainfall

Amaravati, September 13 (Daily Kiran) : Heavy rainfall linked to a low-pressure area has resulted in two fatalities in Andhra Pradesh’s Palnadu district. The incidents occurred on Saturday night as thunderstorms swept through the region.

Authorities reported that lightning struck in Narsaraopet, claiming the lives of two individuals identified as Nagamma, 63, and Mekala Venkayamma, 60. It is believed both died from cardiac arrest during the storm.

Areas including East Godavari, Visakhapatnam, and Gajuwaka experienced intense rainfall. In Nidadavolu, a bus stand was flooded, causing significant inconvenience for travelers.

The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) indicated that the low-pressure system remains active over Vidarbha and Madhya Pradesh. In a bulletin released on Sunday morning, officials warned of potential moderate to heavy rainfall in parts of the state over the next 24 hours.

Strong winds, expected to reach speeds of 40-60 km/h along the northern Andhra coast, have prompted advisories for fishermen to refrain from venturing into the sea. Rain accompanied by lightning is also anticipated in areas of Eluru, NTR, Krishna, Nandyal, and Kurnool districts.

Prakhar Jain, managing director of APSDMA, urged residents to stay clear of trees or billboards during thunderstorms. He also advised against attempting to cross swollen rivers or canals. State Home Minister Vangalapudi Anita has called for heightened alertness among residents and officials in light of the weather forecast.

She emphasized the need for people to avoid crossing turbulent waterways and instructed authorities to restrict vehicle movement in high-risk areas. This year, Andhra Pradesh has seen a significant rainfall deficit of nearly 60%. Many regions are experiencing extreme heat, with daytime temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. According to the Andhra Pradesh Water Resources Information and Management System (APWRIMS), the state has recorded just 236.51 mm of rainfall from January 1 to September 9, compared to the normal of 578.58 mm, marking a 59.12% shortfall.