Full Breakdown
Heavy Rain from Bay Depression Prompts Alerts, School Closures, and Power Precautions in Andhra Pradesh
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Core Event: Deep Depression Triggers Heavy Rain and Alerts in North Andhra Pradesh
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast heavy rainfall and gusty winds on September 23 and September 24 as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal moved west-northwestward, positioning about 70 km east-southeast of Kalingapatnam on the morning of September 23. The system was expected to cross the North Andhra Pradesh–South Odisha coasts between Visakhapatnam and Gopalpur by September 23, 2026. Squalls with gusts up to 75 kmph were projected through the evening of September 24.
In response, the Andhra Pradesh government declared a holiday for schools and Anganwadi centres in six districts—Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Parvathipuram Manyam, Visakhapatnam, Alluri Sitharama Raju, and Anakapalle. Employees’ leave was cancelled and State Disaster Response Force teams were deployed to vulnerable coastal areas.
Background & Context
The depression intensified as the southwest monsoon entered its withdrawal phase, with the IMD noting that conditions were becoming favourable for the monsoon to retreat from northern India on September 22, 2026. Forecasts indicated the system could strengthen further into a deep depression within 12 hours, though the department ruled out escalation to a cyclonic storm named “Arnab.”
Official Statements & Responses
- Energy Ministry: Gottipati Ravi Kumar directed officials of the Energy Department and the AP Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL) to remain on high alert, prioritize preventive measures for low-lying and coastal zones, and keep restoration crews on “war-footing.”
- Education Authorities: District collectors in the six affected districts issued orders closing schools and Anganwadi centres, cancelling staff leave, and deploying disaster-response teams.
- Health Guidance: Dr Gude advised residents to wash exposed skin promptly, launder contaminated clothing separately, and seek medical evaluation for deep or infected wounds, noting the risk of sewage-borne infections from floodwater.
On-the-Ground Reports
Local health officials warned that floodwater can carry sewage, chemicals, and debris, raising the risk of stomach infections, skin problems, and injuries. Residents were urged to avoid standing water, clean wounds immediately, and monitor for signs of infection that may require antibiotics or tetanus prophylaxis.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Cyclone Naming: Some social-media posts claimed the system had intensified into “Cyclone Arnab,” but the IMD’s latest bulletin continued to classify it as a deep depression and ruled out naming it until cyclonic intensity is reached.
- System Speed: Outlets reported differing forward speeds—7 kmph, 12 kmph, and 17 kmph—reflecting updates in successive IMD bulletins.
- Intensity Forecasts: Independent forecasters suggested possible intensification into a severe cyclonic storm, yet the official IMD forecast maintained the system would peak as a deep depression.
What’s Next
- Landfall: The deep depression is slated to cross the coast on September 23, 2026.
- Continued Weather Threat: Squalls up to 75 kmph are expected through September 24, with heavy to very heavy rainfall projected to persist across Andhra Pradesh and Odisha until September 27.
- Monsoon Withdrawal: The IMD indicated that monsoon retreat will continue in northern India over the next two to three days, potentially altering weather patterns elsewhere.
Authorities remain on high alert, urging residents to follow official updates, avoid flood-prone zones, and cooperate with emergency teams as the depression approaches the coastline.