El Niño Triggers Heatwave Conditions in Coastal Andhra, Rayalaseema

The southwest monsoon has weakened over southern India due to the impact of El Niño, leading to severe dry conditions. Moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea have also stopped reaching the region, allowing dry winds to blow from western India through Telangana and Chhattisgarh towards Coastal Andhra. Several parts of Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema are witnessing intense heat, with daytime temperatures 3 to 6 degrees Celsius above normal. Tirupati recorded 39.4°C, Nellore 39.2°C and Kavali 39°C.

The Meteorological Department has forecast that the heat will continue in Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema over the next 24 hours, with isolated rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning in some areas. A weather expert said that El Niño years generally bring reduced rainfall and higher temperatures during this period, citing similar conditions in 1972, 1997, 2002 and 2009. The expert added that the current heatwave-like conditions may continue for another five to six days.