Cyclone Arnab: Guntur district records 41 mm average rainfall; authorities stay alert

Vehicles make their way through heavy rain at Undavalli in Guntur district on Wednesday as Cyclone Arnab brings adverse weather conditions to the Amaravati region.

Guntur district recorded an average rainfall of 41 mm as on 9 a.m., Wednesday, with Duggirala mandal receiving the highest rainfall of 77.8 mm, followed by Tadepalle at 71.2 mm and Chebrole at 70 mm, amid the impact of cyclone Arnab.

According to the daily rainfall statistics, Mangalagiri and Kollipara received 66.6 mm each, Tenali 63.8 mm, Pedakakani 50.8 mm, Guntur East 38.4 mm, Guntur West 38.2 mm, Tadikonda 36 mm, Thullur 31.8 mm, Ponnur 24.5 mm, Kakumanu 21.6 mm, Medikonduru 18.6 mm, Vatticherukuru 17.4 mm, Pedanandipadu 16.2 mm, Prathipadu 15.6 mm and Phirangipuram 12.4 mm.

District Collector C.M. Saikanth Varma directed officials to remain at the field level and maintain heightened vigilance throughout Wednesday in view of the cyclone and continuing rainfall.

During a teleconference with officials, the Collector instructed them to inspect low-lying areas, assess the situation and ensure uninterrupted road connectivity, noting that strong winds were prevailing and stressing the need for prompt action to address emerging problems.

Stating that a tree that had fallen at Emani village in Duggirala mandal had been removed, Mr. Varma instructed Roads and Buildings and Panchayat Raj engineers to continuously monitor road conditions and take immediate remedial measures.

Water Resources Department engineers were directed to monitor water flows at Prakasam Barrage and other channels. Schools and colleges in the district were declared closed for the day as a precautionary measure.

The Collector said Yanadi families had already been shifted to rehabilitation centres. He instructed officials to provide quality food to the families and milk to children.

He directed all departments to submit regular situation reports and remain fully alert throughout the day. He also cautioned people against venturing near streams, rivulets, tanks and rivers during the adverse weather conditions.