Red alert in Hyderabad; school, collages closed

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued Red, Orange, and Yellow alerts across all districts in Telangana, in anticipation of heavy rains expected to persist over the next two days.

Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari has instructed district collectors to enforce comprehensive safety measures due to the severe weather conditions. Streams have significantly swollen in districts like Mahabubabad, Narayanpet, and Khammam due to ongoing rains.

Key actions and developments include:

• Alerts Issued: All districts in Telangana are under Red, Orange, and Yellow alerts, indicating varying levels of weather severity and potential impact.
• NDRF Deployment: National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams are stationed in Hyderabad and Vijayawada, prepared for deployment if necessary.
• Control Rooms Established: Control rooms have been set up in each district collector’s office, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), and the state secretariat to manage the situation effectively.
• Supervision of Streams: District administrations have been directed to appoint officers specifically to manage overflowing streams and related issues.
• School Closures: All primary and secondary schools in Hyderabad district will remain closed on September 2, following the red alert, to ensure the safety of students.
• Water Safety Measures: The state government has issued advisories to prevent tank contamination and ensure proper chlorination to avoid the spread of waterborne diseases.
• Weather Forecast: Hyderabad is expected to experience moderate to heavy rain or thunderstorms over the next 48 hours, with surface winds possibly reaching speeds of 30-40 km/h.
• Safety Advisories: Authorities have urged parents and guardians to stay informed about weather warnings and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their children.
• Evacuation and Relief: The state has a proactive plan in place to evacuate people from flood-affected areas and establish relief camps to assist those in need.
• Irrigation Department Alert: Officials in the irrigation department are on high alert and have been advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions while staying at their posts.

The state government is closely monitoring the situation to respond promptly to any emerging needs.