Heatwave eases across AP, but fresh alert issued for severe temperatures

Vijayawada: After battling relentless heatwave-like conditions for several days, people across Andhra Pradesh finally experienced a major respite on Wednesday as temperatures dropped sharply in most parts of the state. The sudden fall in mercury levels brought visible relief to residents who were struggling under scorching summer conditions until Tuesday.According to Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA) officials, daytime temperatures stayed below 40 degrees Celsius in almost all regions, except at nine locations where the mercury continued to remain above the mark. Cloudy skies and changing weather patterns are believed to have contributed to the unexpected cooling effect.Among the hottest places recorded on Wednesday, Salur in Parvathipuram Manyam district topped the list with 41.8 degrees Celsius. Kukunoor in Eluru district and Kunavaram in Polavaram region registered 41.6 degrees each, while S Rayavaram in Anakapalli district recorded 41.5 degrees. Akkireddypalem in Visakhapatnam touched 41.4 degrees, followed by Chirala in Bapatla district at 41.1 degrees and Kovvur in East Godavari at 41 degrees. Tada in Tirupati district recorded 40.5 degrees, while Pedaparupudi in Krishna district registered 40 degrees Celsius.Despite the temporary relief, officials warned that the heat threat is far from over. Authorities advised people to remain cautious, especially senior citizens, pregnant women and lactating mothers. People suffering from heart ailments, diabetes and blood pressure problems have been asked to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.Health experts recommended consuming plenty of water, lemon juice, buttermilk and coconut water to prevent dehydration. Officials also cautioned people to protect themselves from hot winds while stepping outdoors.Meanwhile, the APSDMA issued another alert stating that severe heatwave conditions may affect 119 mandals on Thursday and 52 mandals on Friday. Temperatures between 45 and 46 degrees Celsius are likely in parts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Kakinada, Konaseema, Eluru, Krishna, Guntur and several other districts over the next two days.