Bengaluru Relishes First Rain After a Long Dry Spell, But Heatwave Looms Ahead
After an extended dry period, Bengalureans experienced a refreshing downpour on Tuesday evening, offering a much-needed respite from the intense heat. The rain led to a noticeable drop in temperature, providing relief to residents after days of scorching conditions.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed the rainfall and cloud cover over the city to a trough located over the southwest Bay of Bengal, off the Tamil Nadu coast, extending up to 1.5 km above sea level.
IMD-Bengaluru Director N. Puviarasan has forecast light rain over Mandya, Mysuru, Kodagu, Chamarajanagara, and nearby regions for the next two days. However, he also issued a heatwave alert for most parts of north and coastal Karnataka, warning of rising temperatures in the coming days.
The IMD report highlighted a significant rise in the minimum temperatures across various parts of Karnataka, including Raichur, Shivamogga, Hassan, and Mandya. Maximum temperatures have also been climbing in regions such as Belagavi, Bidar, Vijayapura, Dharwad, Gadag, Koppal, Haveri, Raichur, and Bengaluru.
Puviarasan specifically noted that temperatures are above normal in coastal areas like Karwar, Honnavar, and Panambur. “Hot and humid conditions are expected to continue along the coast for the next two days. Citizens are advised to take caution, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities between noon and 3 p.m.,” he stated.
Looking ahead, the IMD forecasts light to moderate rain or thundershowers over coastal and southern interior Karnataka during the third week of March due to convection and an easterly trough.
In a related development, the IMD’s Pune office released a report titled National Framework for Heat Wave Management and Mitigation, which highlighted the need for localized heat wave management solutions. It called for community, government, and health agencies to collaborate on creating heat action plans, including early warning systems and cooling centers.
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