Tue May 20 01:20:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Andhra Pradesh Hit by Heavy Rains, Triggering Flooding and Tragedy**
**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh – May 20, 2025** – Several districts across Andhra Pradesh are experiencing heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, bringing respite from intense heat but also causing widespread flooding and tragic incidents.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert, forecasting continued heavy rains for the next two days, May 20th and 21st, specifically for Rayalaseema and South Coastal Andhra. Krishna, Guntur, Palnadu, Bapatla, Tirupati, Chittoor, Nellore, YSR Kadapa, Annamayya, Sri Sathya Sai, Anantapur, Kurnool, and Nandyala districts are expected to receive very heavy rainfall. Moderate showers are predicted for Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, East Godavari, West Godavari, and Konaseema districts.
The downpour has already led to waterlogging in low-lying areas, particularly in Vijayawada, where residents found relief from oppressive heat only to grapple with flooded streets.
Tragically, the heavy rains have also resulted in casualties. In Srikakulam city, a father and son were struck by lightning near the Nagavali River. The father, Gedela Rajarao, died on the spot, while his son, Gedela Nagarjuna, was seriously injured and rushed to the hospital. They were reportedly near the river for a ritual connected to village deity festivals.
In a separate incident in Kakinada district’s U. Kothapalli Mandal, a boat capsized off Uppada coast. Three individuals were traveling to Hope Island when strong waves overturned their vessel. Two managed to swim to safety, but a 20-year-old man, Merugu Shyam, is currently missing. Search and rescue operations are underway.
On a positive note, the Tungabhadra project is experiencing increased water levels due to rains in Karnataka.
Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to exercise caution and stay informed about weather updates.
First Piper 