Flood fear in Srikakulam, Vizianagaram as rains paralyse daily life

Northern Andhra Pradesh is currently reeling under unrelenting downpours. What was supposed to be joyful Dussehra celebrations has turned into a soggy ordeal. After years of anticipation, people were disappointed when heavy rain struck on Gandhi Jayanti (October 2), flooding streets and bringing life to a standstill.

In areas such as Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, Alluri Sitarama Raju, and Anakapalli, the skies opened up with such intensity that roads, lanes, and neighborhoods quickly became waterlogged. Power outages turned basic household chores into impossible tasks. Many families remained confined to their homes as business activity ground to a halt.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, forecasting light to moderate rain across many places, with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall expected in some parts. Strong winds (30–40 km/h) will accompany these rains over the next few days. In recent alerts, the IMD has flagged red and orange alerts for northern coastal districts, warning of possible reddish rainfall exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours and even flash floods.

The state government has responded by putting disaster management forces on high alert. Under direction from the Chief Minister, inter-departmental coordination is underway to handle potential floods. Water flows into rivers and reservoirs are being monitored around the clock, and excess water is being diverted to safe reservoirs. Urban local bodies are clearing blocked drains to reduce waterlogging, while embankments and canal banks are being reinforced.

In flood-prone villages, immediate evacuation plans are readied. Boats and other rescue means are being prepped for submerged areas, particularly downstream along the Krishna. The Health Department has launched disease surveillance drives and intensified water quality testing to prevent outbreaks. Road damage in remote mandals is also being addressed, with bridge repair and communication restoration prioritized. Meanwhile, citizens are advised to postpone nonessential travel and heed safety instructions, especially in vulnerable zones.

As these rains persist, the state’s readiness, coordination, and swift action will determine the scale of damage and the resilience of communities. Vigilance, timely response, and public cooperation are key to withstanding this wet storm.