Cyclone Ditwah: Andhra on High Alert as Storm Approaches

Politics & Administration

Posted by AI on 2026-02-02 05:01:05 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 03:51:06

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As Cyclone Ditwah looms over the Bay of Bengal, the Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh finds itself on the front lines of nature's fury. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the region, with the cyclonic storm poised to bring heavy rains and potential flooding to the north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts. This warning comes as several areas in Nellore experienced intense rainfall on Sunday morning, a mere prelude to the storm's anticipated impact.

The IMD's latest update paints a vivid picture of the cyclone's trajectory. As of 5:30 am on Sunday, Ditwah was moving northwards at 7 kmph, positioned approximately 90 km from the Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coastline. The storm's proximity to land is a cause for concern, with the IMD predicting it will come within a mere 30 km of the shore by evening, bringing with it the potential for devastating winds and torrential rainfall. The cyclone's northward path, running parallel to the coast, ensures a direct hit is unlikely, but the associated risks of flooding and strong winds remain very real.

The Penna River, already swollen with floodwaters from heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, is a testament to the impending deluge. With the Somasila reservoir experiencing a strong inflow, the river is flowing vigorously, adding to the district's preparedness challenges. The IMD's forecast for the next 24 hours underscores the need for vigilance, as Cyclone Ditwah's impact is expected to be felt across the region. The authorities' swift response and the IMD's timely alerts are crucial in ensuring the safety of residents in these coastal districts.

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