Summer arrived early in southern Andhra Pradesh where temperatures rose dramatically during the first week of April. Chittoor, Annamayya and Sri Sathya Sai district all felt the heat.
Several places are already recording maximum temperatures between 39 and 41.5 degrees Celsius, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data and local observations. Chittoor, Nindra, Puttur and Palamaner district are experiencing temperatures around 39C-41C.
Madanapalle in Annamayya district, which is known for its relatively mild climate, is also feeling the heat this year, with temperatures already crossing 35°C and expected to cross 37-38°C in the coming days, a few degrees above what is normal for this time of year in the region.
In Sri Sathya Sai district, the situation is more complicated. Penukonda and Puttaparthi are already reaching a maximum of around 40 to 41 degrees Celsius. Dharmavaram, which was relatively cooler earlier in the week, has seen a steady rise and is likely to reach similar levels in the coming days. Hindupur and Kadiri divisions are also moving towards the 40C mark.
In general, temperatures in these areas at the beginning of April are between 35 and 37 °C. Current conditions are unusually hot, indicating the early onset of peak summer conditions. Medical and health department officials have been put on alert as the mercury is expected to cross 42C in parts of Rayalaseema.
Normal life in many parts of Rayalaseema is affected, especially for those who work outside. Construction workers and road workers and daily wage laborers in Chittoor, Nagari, Piler and Hindupur have reportedly adjusted their working hours, checking in early and leaving by noon and continuing in the evening.
In rural pockets, farmers in mango orchards near Bangarupalem and Chittoor and those working in groundnut fields in Sri Sathya Sai district report reduced working hours and frequent breaks. “After 11 am, it is too difficult to continue,” says 36-year-old gardener Maniganda, working near Gangadhara Nellore in Chittoor district.
Officials of the medical and health wing kept a close eye on the vulnerable areas in Chittoor district. Mandals like Karveti Nagaram, Vedurukuppam and Nindra have in the past reported cases of diarrheal diseases during peak summer, often associated with heat and water quality issues.
On a positive note, officials say there is no immediate concern over drinking water supply in Chittoor district, with availability remaining stable for now.
Published – 05 Apr 2026 17:11 IST
