Temporary relief from rain for Hyderabad but officials stay alert

Hyderabad: The extremely heavy rain forecast for Thursday evening did not hit Hyderabad as expected, giving the city temporary relief.

However, with steady showers over the past few days, civic officials remain on alert for possible flooding in low-lying areas.

City slows down ahead of forecast

A half-day holiday for schools kept many children at home and those that opened saw low attendance. Hyderabad’s IT corridors, which usually see heavy weekday traffic, stayed quiet as most employees worked from home. Main roads recorded light traffic throughout the day.

Under overcast skies, the city experienced light rain for most of Thursday, with brief but intense showers in some areas.

Lakes and tanks at full capacity

The impact of earlier rains was visible; lakes and tanks were near full capacity, and overflow was reported in several locations. Water from these inflows has reached some roads, prompting warnings for residents along the Musi River and other vulnerable areas.

“The city has so far been spared the heaviest spells, but given the moisture in the atmosphere and active monsoon conditions over Telangana, short bursts of intense rain are still possible over the next 72 hours,” said meteorologist KS Sridhar speaking to NewsMeter. “Residents in low-lying areas should remain alert, as even brief heavy showers could lead to waterlogging.”

Precautionary measures are in place

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has instructed field teams to remain on duty around the clock. Machinery for clearing waterlogging and debris is on standby, and leaves for key staff have been cancelled.

Officials say this will help ensure quick responses if any area faces sudden flooding.

Reservoirs, including Himayatsagar, Osmansagar and Singur, are nearing full levels. Four gates at Himayatsagar have already been opened to release water in a controlled manner.

Weather forecast

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has maintained an orange alert for parts of the city and surrounding districts. Forecasts for Hyderabad are as follows:

• Friday, Aug 15: Cloudy with light afternoon rain; high of 28°C, low of 23°C.

• Saturday, Aug 16: Overcast with occasional rain; high of 27°C, low of 22°C.

• Sunday, Aug 17: Cloudy skies with afternoon showers; high of 27°C, low of 22°C.

• Monday, Aug 18: Morning showers, easing by afternoon; high of 25°C, low of 22°C.

• Tuesday, Aug 19: Breezy with steady rain through the day; high of 25°C, low of 22°C.

• Wednesday, Aug 20: Morning drizzle followed by scattered thunderstorms; high of 28°C, low of 23°C.

• Thursday, Aug 21: Mostly cloudy with light afternoon rain; high of 30°C, low of 23°C.

Officials urge caution

Authorities have reminded residents in flood-prone colonies to keep valuables safe, avoid open drains, and report any blockages immediately.

Residents are advised to monitor weather updates, restrict travel during heavy showers, and stay prepared for possible advisories in the coming days.