Heavy rain lash Annamayya and Chittoor districts in Andhra Pradesh

Heavy rains swept through the Annamayya and Chittoor districts of Andhra Pradesh in the past 24 hours, providing desperately needed relief after weeks of drought and raising optimism for better rabi crop prospects. Annamayya district experienced significant rainfall across three revenue divisions from late Friday to early Saturday.

The Rayachoti Division saw 113.0 mm of rain, with Sambepalli receiving the most at 36.2 mm. Piler Division recorded the most rain in the district with 233.6 mm, including 45.0 mm in Gurramkonda. Madanapalle Division also saw heavy downpours, with Madanapalle town getting 63.0 mm. Meanwhile, Chittoor district experienced intense thunderstorms on Saturday evening, with Kuppam, Palamaner, Bangarupalem, and Gudipala receiving moderate to heavy rainfall.

Irrigation officials stated that the rain would greatly assist farmers in both districts, as moisture stressed crops like groundnut, paddy, ragi, and tomatoes would likely recover from heat stress. Water bodies like tanks and borewells would also benefit from the rain, improving groundwater levels and facilitating early Rabi sowing.

Local horticulturists expressed relief over the timely precipitation, calling it crucial for crop health, groundwater recharge, and overall farm prosperity.