The much-anticipated Cyclone Ditwah, which had authorities in Andhra Pradesh on high alert, has significantly weakened, sparing the state its full fury. The cyclonic storm downgraded into a deep depression over the southwest Bay of Bengal, leading to moderate rainfall across several districts instead of the feared heavy lashing.
Rainfall Data and District-Wise Impact
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the system brought the highest rainfall to Kavali in Nellore district, which recorded 11 cm of rainfall between Sunday and Monday morning. Other areas in Nellore like Atmakur received 6 cm, while Nellore town, Rapur, Venkatagiri, and Gudur saw around 4 cm each. Locations in Tirupati and YSR Kadapa districts also received similar precipitation.
The state's real-time rainfall data from the Directorate of Economics and Statistics indicated that parts of Nellore, Tirupati, and Chittoor districts experienced moderate rainfall between 2 cm and 4 cm on Monday afternoon. Most other regions in the state recorded lighter showers between 1 cm and 3 cm during the initial period of the system's influence.
Current Forecast and Warnings
Despite weakening, the remnants of Ditwah are expected to cause continued weather activity. Scientist S Karunasagar from IMD-Amaravati stated that isolated places in Tirupati, Nellore, West Godavari, and Konaseema districts may experience heavy rainfall on Tuesday, December 2nd.
The IMD has forecasted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated places over Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema. Squally winds with speeds reaching 35-45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph, are also likely in these regions due to the system's remnants. As a precaution, fishermen have been strongly advised not to venture along and off the Andhra Pradesh coast until Tuesday.
Minimal Damage and Future Outlook
In a relief for the state administration and citizens, no deaths or injuries have been reported due to Cyclone Ditwah in Andhra Pradesh. Initial reports also suggest there have been no major damages caused by the weather event.
The IMD has indicated that the deep depression is expected to weaken further over the next 24 hours. However, its lingering effects will likely keep the weather over parts of coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema districts active with moderate to heavy downpours through Tuesday.
