New Delhi: The low pressure area formed in the Bay of Bengal has now turned into a deep depression. This weather system, active about 320 km east of Visakhapatnam, is moving in the north-west direction towards the coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha at a speed of 17 km per hour. Due to favorable sea temperatures and excessive moisture in the Gulf, this system is becoming more aggressive, due to which huge devastation is expected in the coastal areas on 23 and 24 September.

Danger of landfall on Andhra and Odisha

According to meteorologists, this system may cross the coast between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur between late night of September 23 and early morning of September 24.
Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is likely over Visakhapatnam, Srikakulam, Ganjam and Puri. During landfall, winds can blow at a speed of 60-70 km per hour.

Flood and waterlogging alert in Telangana

Even after hitting the coast, the impact of this depression will not reduce and it will move towards the interior parts of the country. Its most severe impact can be seen in Telangana on the night of 24th to 25th September. There is a possibility of heavy rainfall up to 200 mm in the eastern and central districts of the state. Rivers, drains and reservoirs are already full in Telangana, so there is a serious risk of flash floods due to additional rains. The crisis of heavy waterlogging on roads and traffic standstill has deepened in many big cities including Hyderabad.

Administration preparations and civil defense instructions

In view of the seriousness of the situation, the administrative staff and disaster management teams (NDRF and SDRF) of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Telangana have been put on high alert. People from low lying and potentially flood affected areas are being evacuated to safe places and relief camps. Municipal bodies have been instructed to improve the drainage system and keep emergency exits open. Plans are being made to declare holidays for schools and colleges in sensitive areas and change the timings of government and private offices. Residents of coastal areas should avoid unnecessary travel and stay in safe places. Be careful to avoid waterlogging or contact with electrical wires and keep electrical appliances turned off. Ignore misleading rumors and rely only on official news and announcements. Farmers should immediately make arrangements for drainage to protect their crops from waterlogging.