Bay watch: Low wraps and high drops—Andhra braces as Southwest system keeps the taps on

The system at a glance

The low-pressure area over the southwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Sri Lanka has moved to the Comorin neighborhood, with an associated cyclonic circulation extending up to 5.6 km above mean sea level and a slow west-northwest drift expected over the next 24 hours. IMD also expects a fresh low to form over the southeast Bay around November 22, likely to intensify thereafterUnited News of India+1. The northeast monsoon remains active over Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam, and normal over Rayalaseema.

 

Key highlights

Slow mover, steady showers:

 

The system is likely to continue its west-northwest track, maintaining rain chances instead of a quick exit.

 

Thunder and squalls:

 

Thunderstorms with lightning are on the cards at isolated places; squally weather of 35–45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph, is expected along and off the south AP coast.

 

Heavy rain pockets:

 

Isolated heavy rainfall is likely over South Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema, with districts like Nellore and Tirupati particularly in focus.

 

Second act incoming:

 

A new low is likely around November 22 over the southeast Bay, with west-northwest movement and strengthening over the subsequent 48 hours—potentially extending the wet spell.

 

Recent rain tally:

 

Under the influence of the current low, heavy rain fell in parts of Rayalaseema; Tada in Tirupati district recorded 11 cm in 24 hours ending Tuesday morning.

 

What to expect regionally

Light to moderate rain or thundershowers may occur at one or two places in South Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema through the week, and in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam between November 20 and 23, as the moisture feed persists. Watch for short, intense bursts and lightning during convective windows. IMD’s press guidance earlier flagged the initial formation off Sri Lanka and the risk of heavy to very heavy rainfall in adjacent belts as the system matured, underscoring the multi-day nature of this episodeinternal.imd.gov.in.

 

Safety and preparedness pointers

Plan for bursts: Keep commute buffers; avoid waterlogged or low-lying routes during peak showers.

 

Coastline caution: Fishermen should heed squally wind advisories and check updated IMD bulletins before venturing out.

 

Power and drainage: Clear local drains; charge essentials and secure outdoor items ahead of thunderstorm activity.

 

Sources: UNI India, Times of India, Deccan Chronicle