IMD sounds heatwave alert in Visakhapatnam: Check areas affected and safety tips

For residents of Andhra Pradesh (AP), respite from the scorching sun seems far-off as the state braces for a continuation of the existing sweltering weather, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting an oncoming heatwave in the coming days, till 18 April 2024. The given forecast and weather warning from IMD, Amaravati, suggests that isolated areas in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh (NCAP), Yanam, and South Coastal Andhra Pradesh (SCAP) are set to face heatwave conditions. Meanwhile, Rayalaseema is likely to grapple with hot, humid, and uncomfortable weather. With Visakhapatnam being a prominent part of NCAP, it is expected that some areas of the city may be prone to this heatwave alert over the coming days.

The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) pinpointed that a severe heatwave is expected to hit Andhra in 113 mandals on Tuesday (16 April), and 33 mandals may experience a normal heatwave.

According to the weather forecast by APSDMA following the warning given my IMD, three mandals in Visakhapatnam – Anandapuram, Pendurthi, and Padmanabham – are likely to experience heatwaves today (16 April), with temperatures rising up to 40, 39.8 and 41.4 degrees Celsius respectively. Meanwhile, the same mandals are forecasted to record temperatures up to 39.3, 39.2, and 40.9 degrees Celcius tomorrow (17 April).

On Monday, severe heatwaves were reported in 38 mandals, and regular heatwaves in 75 mandals of Andhra Pradesh. Nandyal registered the highest maximum temperature of 43 degrees Celsius, trailed by Kurnool at 41.8 degrees Celsius, Nandigama at 40.8, Jangamaheshwarapuram at 40.6, Tirupati and Kadapa at 40.4, and Anantapur at 40.3 degrees Celsius.

Precautions to take during the heatwave:

As the upcoming temperatures signal a warning, individuals are at risk of suffering from heat cramps and heat exhaustion due to extended sun exposure or sustained physical activity. The escalating temperatures could also potentially lead to heatstroke. Here are some necessary precautions to consider during this period:

Stay informed about local weather conditions by watching the TV, listening to radio news, and reading newspapers.
When you go out, protect yourself by wearing a cap or tying a handkerchief on the head, wearing light-colored cotton clothes, and using sunglasses for the eyes.
Stay indoors as much as possible.
Hydrate frequently, even when not feeling thirsty. Consume drinks like salted buttermilk, glucose, or ORS. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks, as they dehydrate the body.
If someone is affected by the heat, they should be evacuated to the nearest primary health center. If symptoms like dizziness, vomiting, or other health problems occur due to intense sun exposure, contact a doctor immediately.
To keep your home cool, you can use a fan, paint the roof white for cost-effective cooling, use cool roof technology, cross ventilation, or thermocol insulation. Rooftop and indoor plants can also help keep the building cool and reduce heat loss.
During the heatwave, carry an umbrella when walking outside, avoid wearing black or thick clothing, and doing too much physical activity outside.
Infants, children, and the elderly should not go outside when the sun is high.

If you are staying in Visakhapatnam amidst this heatwave, do stay alert and take these essential safety measures.

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