Chandrababu Naidu told officials to issue round-the-clock heatwave warning as mercury to soar to 48C in AP

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu chairs a review meeting on prevailing heat wave conditions in Amaravati on Friday. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Friday (May 22, 2026) held an emergency assessment meeting on heat wave conditions across the state and put officials on high alert to protect public health and safety.

With temperatures rising to dangerous levels in several districts, the chief minister instructed officials to identify areas witnessing extreme heat and issue round-the-clock alerts and warnings to the public. He ordered authorities to declare local holidays in areas where heat intensity is exceptionally high.

Officials informed Mr. Naidu that the prevailing El Niño conditions have significantly intensified the heat wave in Andhra Pradesh.

Mr. Naidu directed officials to ensure availability of cold drinking water, buttermilk and ORS sachets at public places and high footfall areas.

He directed the District Collectors to hold media briefings and create public awareness about preventive measures to prevent heat stroke and dehydration. According to him, information and advice should constantly be the subject of topics through social media platforms and the press.

Stressing that public safety remains the government’s top priority, the Chief Minister appealed to the public to avoid being outside during the midday. He advised the elderly, pregnant women, children and people with health problems to stay at home between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Thermal shelters

Officials said 1,349 thermal shelters and cooling centers have already been set up in urban areas. Shielding measures were implemented at 446 traffic junctions for motorists and police officers.

The Chief Minister directed officials to provide water troughs and earthen pots for birds and animals.

Officials said temperatures in the state rose from 45°C to 48°C in the last three days, adding that Andhra Pradesh had recorded an all-time high of 50.1°C during the strong El Niño in 2015.

Stressing the need to increase greenery in rural and urban areas, Mr. Naidu said that improving the water table and green cover will help reduce the long-term impact of rising temperatures.

As an example, he said that Annamayya district has seen relatively cooler temperatures due to better greenery.

The Chief Minister has directed officials to intensify awareness campaigns and emergency preparedness measures over the next week.

The review meeting was attended by Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad and senior officials from Municipal Administration, Rural Development, Disaster Management and Health.

Published – 22 May 2026 20:16 IST