HYDERABAD: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh alert for North Telangana and adjoining South Bastar regions, warning that the remnants of a deep depression caused by Cyclone Montha are likely to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flash floods over the next 48 hours.
According to IMD’s latest bulletin, the weakened system, now described as the “remnants” of the severe cyclonic storm, is tracking northward after an unexpected shift from its earlier eastward trajectory. Initially forecast to dissipate over the Bay of Bengal’s eastern coast, the system has now begun interacting with inland moisture, intensifying slightly as it moves across Telangana.
Godavari basin districts on alert
The Godavari River basin districts are expected to bear the brunt of the storm’s impact. Areas stretching from Bhadrachalam in the east to Karimnagar in the northwest have been identified as high-risk zones. IMD forecasts winds between 28 and 33 kilometres per hour, along with widespread moderate to heavy rainfall.
These gusts, though below cyclonic intensity, could still cause disruptions, including uprooted trees, power outages, and traffic snarls. “The storm may have weakened, but it remains dangerous due to the associated rainfall and localised flooding,” an IMD official said.
Risk of flash floods and damage to crops
Low-lying areas, particularly those still recovering from last week’s unseasonal downpours, face heightened risks of flash flooding. IMD models indicate that rainfall exceeding 100 mm may occur in isolated pockets of the northern districts.
The likely hardest-hit areas include Bhadrachalam, Khammam, Mulugu, Bhupalpally, Mahabubabad, and Peddapalli — districts known for their dense forests, tribal settlements, and paddy fields ready for harvest. Farmers in these regions have expressed concerns about potential crop losses, especially in agency areas where recent rains have already waterlogged fields.
Government steps up preparedness
The Telangana State Disaster Response and Relief Department (TSDRRD) has mobilised rapid response teams across vulnerable regions. District administrations have been instructed to remain on high alert, monitor rainfall patterns, and initiate evacuations if required.
Local authorities are also preparing temporary shelters in case of displacement. Power utilities have been asked to keep emergency crews on standby, and irrigation officials have been directed to regulate water discharge from reservoirs along the Godavari belt.
IMD advises caution
Residents have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors during heavy rainfall spells. IMD has advised fishermen and farmers to exercise caution, avoid venturing into rivers or low-lying farmlands, and follow local advisories closely.
The department added that while the system is expected to gradually weaken over the next two days, intermittent heavy rainfall and thunderstorms could persist until the weekend.