A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal crossed the north Andhra Pradesh coast near Kalingapatnam during the early hours of Thursday, bringing strong winds and heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across parts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.
According to the India Meteorological Department, the system crossed the coast during the night of September 23-24 with winds of around 55-65 kmph and gusts reaching up to 75 kmph. After making landfall, the weather system moved inland and was expected to gradually weaken while continuing to bring heavy rainfall to several areas.
The system had already triggered severe weather conditions in southern Odisha. Heavy rain caused waterlogging, flash flooding and landslides in several areas, while transport links were disrupted. Several roads and bridges were reportedly damaged or washed away after swollen rivers and streams overflowed.
The Odisha government stepped up its disaster-response measures and deployed teams of the Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force in vulnerable districts. More than 5,000 people were shifted to safer locations in Gajapati and Ganjam districts as a precautionary measure.
Authorities remained on alert as the weather system continued to move inland. Residents in low-lying and vulnerable areas were advised to follow instructions issued by local administrations and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall.
The India Meteorological Department also warned of continued heavy rainfall in parts of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. Rough to very rough sea conditions were reported along the affected coastal areas, prompting authorities to maintain cautionary measures at ports.
West Bengal was also placed under weather alerts as the system and its associated circulation affected conditions over eastern India. Several districts were expected to receive heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds.
Officials in affected states continued monitoring rivers, drainage systems and vulnerable infrastructure while emergency teams remained prepared for rescue and relief operations.
The latest weather system has once again highlighted the need for timely evacuation and preparedness in coastal and low-lying areas during periods of intense rainfall and severe weather.
