Heatwave continues to scorch north Andhra districts; health experts urge caution

Severe heatwave conditions continued across north Andhra Pradesh on Thursday, with residents of Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli and Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) districts struggling to cope with soaring temperatures and oppressive humidity.

According to the Cyclone Warning Centre (CWC), Visakhapatnam, severe heatwave conditions are likely to persist over south coastal and north coastal Andhra Pradesh for the next two to three days. Heatwave conditions have been forecast specifically for Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli and ASR districts.

Weather data from the CWC and the Directorate of Economics and Statistics (DES) indicated that temperatures in several parts of Visakhapatnam and Anakapalli districts hovered between 38°C and 39°C during the day. The airport area in Visakhapatnam recorded 38.2°C, while mandals such as Kotauratla in Anakapalli district witnessed temperatures nearing 38°C. Though comparatively cooler, parts of the ASR district, like Koyyuru, recorded temperatures of around 38°C.

The impact of the heatwave was visible across Visakhapatnam city during peak afternoon hours between 11.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m., when roads and commercial areas wore a deserted look as residents sought shelter indoors. Construction workers, gig workers, field workers, rail and bus passengers, and students preparing for competitive examinations were among those most affected.

Dr. Deepthi Florence, MD, DM (Endocrinology), warned that prolonged exposure to heat combined with physical exertion could result in dehydration and a rise in core body temperature beyond 104°F, leading to heat stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency.

She advised people to wear light-coloured breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen, use caps, umbrellas and sun-protective sleeves, and to avoid direct exposure during peak hours. Frequent hydration through water, oral rehydration solution, buttermilk and lemon water was also recommended.

Children, elderly persons and pregnant women were identified as high-risk groups. Dr. Florence said symptoms such as blurred vision and slurred speech required immediate medical attention and advised that affected persons be immediately moved to a shaded area and cooled with water and fans.