IMD forecasts heatwave in South Coastal A.P. on March 8, 9

The India Meteorological Department, Amaravati, has forecast heatwave conditions in South Coastal Andhra Pradesh on March 8 and 9, with hot and humid weather likely to persist until March 11.

In the first week of March itself, four stations. Kavali, Ongole, Bapatla and Nellore. recorded around 40° Celsius on March 6, registering a departure from the normal by 5.5° to 6.5° Celsius. According to the IMD, one of the criteria for declaring a heatwave at a station is when the departure from the normal temperature ranges between 4.5° and 6.4° Celsius.

On March 5 too, Kavali and Nellore recorded 39.2° Celsius and 38.9° Celsius respectively, marking departures of 5.7° and 4.8° Celsius above the normal.

However, contrary to the forecast, temperatures dropped on Saturday, providing relief to people from the scorching heat. The day’s highest temperature of 39.4° Celsius was recorded in Kurnool, which is considered normal for the station at this time of the year.

According to the weekly forecast, maximum temperatures in Rayalaseema may rise by 2° to 3° Celsius over the next two days. In North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, thundershowers are expected on March 9 and 10, after which hot conditions are likely to prevail.

It may be noted that in its summer outlook for Andhra Pradesh, the IMD had stated that the State is likely to experience normal to above normal maximum and minimum temperatures from March to May. In March, above normal maximum temperatures are expected in Central Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema.