VIJAYAWADA: Heavy rains that lashed Vijayawada on Saturday eased but caused severe flooding on Sunday. The breach of the Budameru Rivulet has affected 2.76 lakh people across 17 wards, leaving many without power, water, or food.

The death toll from rain-related incidents rose to 15. In Prakasam district, three children drowned, and a man from Gollapudi died while trying to escape an inundated building.

In Ibrahimpatnam, lineman V Koteswara Rao was swept away while repairing a transformer. In G Kondur, a tractor overturned, resulting in one woman being washed away and nine others rescued.

Floodwaters have caused panic, with residents moving to higher floors and reports of snakes being spotted. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu visited affected areas by boat and assured support.

A retaining wall near Kanaka Durga temple collapsed, blocking the area. Overflowing canals in NTR district have caused additional flooding. The Home Secretary announced that six NDRF teams, 40 power boats, and six helicopters will assist in relief efforts.

Chief Minister Naidu is focusing on providing immediate food supplies and has promised ex-gratia payments to victims families. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured the Centre's support and directed departments to provide necessary assistance.

The current floods are being compared to the 2005 disaster, with intense rainfall leading to significant damage and disruption.