Summer strikes AP once again, maximum temperature 38.76 degrees

 Anantapur: Summer seems to have hit Andhra Pradesh once again, with many parts of the state witnessing high temperatures. Maximum 38.76 degree Celsius has been recorded at Ayyapareddypalem in Kaligiri mandal of Sri Potti Sriramulu Nellore district on Wednesday. Pyalakurthy in Kodumur mandal recorded the lowest maximum temperature of 35.7 degrees in the state.

As per the meteorological department, the average maximum temperature all over the state has been 35 degrees Celsius.

Ashnapuram in Anumasamudrampeta of SPR Nellore district recorded the second highest mercury level of 38.25 degrees, followed by 38.05 degrees at Tadepalli in Tadepalligudem mandal of West Godavari district.  Gangavaram in Gangavaram mandal of Alluri Sitharama Raju district registered 37.9 degrees.

Temple town of Tirupati recorded 37.3 degrees while Boppepalli in Yellanur of Anantapur district witnessed 36.59 degrees.

The alarming rise in mercury levels has hit normal life in urban areas. Roads during mid-afternoon wore a deserted look.

“We never used fans during night times in this season. But now, we have to switch on ACs even during nights,” said Raghavendra Rao, retired employee staying at First Road in Anantapur.

Experts say rain deficit and failure of South West Monsoon has led to abnormal weather conditions. The rise in mercury levels has also impacted irrigation, drinking water supply and power generation.

“Relatively higher temperatures in recent days are due to less rainfall and minimal clouds in the sky, which has resulted in lower atmospheric moisture,” Dr. Ashok Kumar observed. He said the same situation is likely to continue for a few more days.

Though Srisailam and Tungabhadra dams had been full last year following incessant rains, the situation is worse during the present year. Tungabhadra river bed is dry, as no water has been released from the dam this year.

Many historic places, tourist spots and temples are facing water shortage, including Hampi, Mantralayam and Srisailam.