Tirupati rain disrupted daily life and pilgrim movement on Sunday, with the city recording 49.8 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending at 8.30 am, while the India Meteorological Department forecast more rain and thunderstorms across the region over the next few days.
The rainfall was linked to a depression over the east-central and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal. The system was expected to intensify into a cyclonic storm by Monday and move towards the Andhra Pradesh coast, according to the IMD forecast cited in the report.
Intermittent showers caused waterlogging in parts of Tirupati and affected normal movement across the city. Surface winds and falling temperatures added to the discomfort, with many residents, particularly senior citizens, choosing to remain indoors during the wet conditions.
Rain also affected Tirumala, where devotees visiting the Sri Venkateswara temple faced difficult conditions around the hilltop settlement and the mada streets. Mist and cooler weather reduced visibility and made movement more difficult in areas used by pilgrims.
Pilgrims who had completed darshan experienced problems travelling to their accommodation, bus stands and other destinations. Several people were seen looking for shelter as showers continued, adding to the difficulty of moving through open areas around the temple complex.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams advised motorists using the ghat roads to drive slowly and remain cautious, particularly on stretches where rain and fog could reduce visibility. Devotees were also advised to take precautions while walking or moving through open areas during the rainy conditions.
The IMD forecast further spells of rain and thunderstorms in Tirupati and other parts of Rayalaseema on Monday and Tuesday, with rainfall activity likely to increase on Tuesday and Wednesday. The weather system’s expected movement towards the Andhra Pradesh coast remains the key factor behind the forecast of deteriorating conditions.
