Heavy rains are hitting Andhra Pradesh due to a deep depression forming in the Bay of Bengal. This weather system is moving closer to the coast and is expected to make landfall soon.
The deep depression is currently about 500 km from Nellore. It is expected to reach land between Puducherry and Nellore, near Chennai, on October 17. The system is moving at a speed of 30-40 km/h.
Several areas, including the united districts of Prakasam, Nellore, and Chittoor, have already been affected by heavy rains. A red alert has been issued in these regions. Rayalaseema is also seeing significant rainfall, and moderate to heavy rains have been reported in Guntur, Krishna, and parts of Telangana.
In coastal regions, particularly near Kothapatnam close to Ongole, the sea has become rough, with waves rising two feet higher than normal. Fishermen have been advised to stay off the sea, and local residents near the coast have been warned to stay alert. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has been deployed to help with relief efforts, as winds are expected to reach speeds of 50-60 km/h.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has stated that the rains are likely to continue for the next two to three days. They are advising people to avoid unnecessary travel and take precautions during this severe weather.