Mon Aug 18 15:45:26 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, focusing on the key events and directives:

**Headline: Andhra Pradesh on High Alert as Heavy Rains and Dam Releases Threaten Flooding**

**Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh – August 18, 2025 -** Officials in Nandyal and Kurnool districts are on high alert following a severe weather forecast and substantial water releases from major dams. The India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall for the state, particularly the Rayalaseema region, prompting precautionary measures across affected areas.

In Nandyal district, Minister for Roads and Buildings B.C. Janardhan Reddy has directed all relevant departments to maintain 24/7 vigilance and responsiveness. He specifically instructed agriculture and horticulture officials to warn farmers of potential crop damage and advise on protective measures. The electricity department is tasked with rapid power restoration, while road and building crews are clearing debris from uprooted trees to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow. Residents are being urged to stay indoors except in emergencies, and those in low-lying areas are advised to evacuate to safer locations. Authorities are also restricting access to vulnerable infrastructure, including weak culverts and bridges.

Superintendent of Police Adhiraj Singh Rana has issued safety advisories to the public, cautioning against seeking shelter under trees or poles during high winds and advising against occupying dilapidated buildings. Police forces are monitoring overflowing water bodies.

Kurnool district is also bracing for potential flooding after the release of 90,000 cusecs of water from the Tungabhadra Dam on Monday. District Collector P. Ranjith Basha has reviewed the situation and instructed officials to be prepared for increasing inflows into the Sunkesula reservoir expected by Tuesday morning. Areas near Meliganuru in Kautalam mandal are already affected, and residents are being alerted to the rising water levels.

Further upstream, Srisailam Dam officials have lifted three additional gates, bringing the total to 10 out of 12 gates open, releasing 3.04 lakh cusecs of water downstream. The releases are in response to heavy inflows from upstream areas.

Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow official advisories to ensure their safety during this period of inclement weather and potential flooding.

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