A severe cyclonic storm crossed near Kalingapatnam between 11 pm and 1 am. Heavy rain is likely in several North Andhra districts, with flash flood warnings.
Srikakulam: A severe cyclonic storm crossed the coast near Kalingapatnam between 11 pm and 1 am on Thursday, according to the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority (APSDMA).
The weather system moved at a speed of around 3 kmph during the six hours preceding landfall and is expected to continue as a severe cyclonic storm for another 12 hours, the disaster management authority said.
It is likely to gradually weaken over the subsequent 24 hours.
Despite the system crossing the coast, authorities have advised people to remain alert for at least 48 hours, as heavy rainfall and the possibility of flash floods may continue in several areas.
According to APSDMA Managing Director Prakhar Jain, heavy rainfall is likely at isolated places on Thursday in Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam and Alluri Sitharama Raju districts.
Isolated heavy rainfall is also expected in parts of Polavaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli and Kakinada, the authority said.
Officials in the field have been directed to remain on high alert and closely monitor weather and rainfall conditions.
The State recorded very heavy rainfall at several locations during the past 24 hours.
More than 100 mm of rainfall was recorded at 80 locations, highlighting the risk of waterlogging and sudden rises in streams and local water bodies.
The disaster management authority has advised residents of low-lying areas to remain particularly cautious about the possibility of flash floods.
People have been urged to follow official advisories and avoid unnecessary travel through flooded roads, streams and other vulnerable locations.
APSDMA has directed field-level officials and emergency response teams to maintain heightened preparedness and continuously monitor vulnerable areas.
Authorities are expected to remain alert even after the system's landfall, particularly in areas experiencing heavy rainfall, waterlogging and possible flash flooding.
The disaster management authorities have reiterated that the public should remain cautious for the next 48 hours as the weather system gradually weakens.
