Flash floods inundate Andhra Pradesh-Odisha border villages, halt NH-16 traffic

Villages straddling the Andhra Pradesh-Odisha border have been severely impacted by flash flooding following intense rainfall in the region. The deluge has submerged low-lying areas, destroying agricultural land and damaging residential structures in multiple settlements.

National Highway 16, a critical arterial route connecting the two states, has been closed to traffic due to waterlogging and the risk of further inundation. Authorities have advised commuters to use alternative routes and avoid the affected corridor until water levels recede and safety assessments are completed.

District administration officials have mobilized disaster management teams to assess the extent of damage and coordinate relief efforts. Preliminary reports indicate that several hundred families have been affected, though no major casualties have been reported so far.

Weather forecasts suggest that rainfall may continue over the next 24-48 hours, raising concerns about further deterioration of conditions. Authorities have appealed to residents in flood-prone areas to remain on high alert and follow evacuation guidelines issued by local officials.