Heavy Rainfall from Low-Pressure Area Disrupts Normal Life in Coastal Andhra & Rayalaseema

Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh; September 14, 2025

A low-pressure system over the west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal has triggered moderate to heavy rainfall across Coastal Andhra Pradesh and parts of Rayalaseema, causing disruptions in daily life. Thallapudi in East Godavari district recorded the highest rain at about 9 cm, while other areas like Lingapalem and Pedakakani received between 7 and 8.7 cm of rain. Some districts saw lighter showers but with gusty winds and thunderstorms. The weather department has issued alerts for strong winds (30-40 km/h) in several areas. This sudden downpour has led to localized waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and nuisance in low-lying areas. Many roads in Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema are reported to be partially blocked or slippery, affecting commuting. For farmers, heavy rains at this point risk damaging standing crops, especially those sensitive to excess moisture. Public services are also strained: drainage systems in towns overflow, causing sewage mix-ups; power supply interruptions; and alerts issued for possible landslides or roof damages in vulnerable zones. Some residents say communication for warnings has been spotty, and people weren’t adequately prepared for today’s intensity. Officials from the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) are monitoring the situation. Forecasts suggest the system will move west-north-westward over the next two days, potentially affecting more of north coastal Andhra Pradesh and even parts of Odisha and Chhattisgarh. Citizens are being urged to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain periods and take safety precautions. The problem underscores recurring challenges: inadequate drainage infrastructure, weak early warning systems in smaller towns, and insufficient awareness among residents about storm preparedness. As climate patterns become more erratic, such weather-related disruptions are becoming more frequent, revealing gaps in urban planning and disaster readiness.