Bengaluru: The southwest monsoon has become more active across Karnataka, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in several parts of the state over the coming week. Weather officials have issued alerts for multiple districts as rainfall activity is expected to intensify in both coastal and interior regions.
According to the IMD, coastal districts including Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada are likely to receive heavy rainfall along with thunderstorms and strong winds until June 19. Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious as active monsoon conditions continue to prevail along the coast.
Weather alerts have also been issued for Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, Ballari and Vijayapura districts, where thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are expected over the next few days.
Coastal Karnataka likely to receive heavy rainfall
The coastal belt has been witnessing active monsoon conditions in recent weeks, resulting in frequent spells of rainfall and occasional disruptions to normal life.
Meteorological officials have warned that heavy rainfall may continue in parts of coastal Karnataka, increasing the possibility of waterlogging, traffic disruptions and minor damage caused by strong winds.
Fishermen operating along the Karnataka coast have been advised to exercise caution due to rough sea conditions and adverse weather expected during the active monsoon phase.
Bengaluru to witness more showers
Although Bengaluru has experienced intermittent rainfall over the past few days, weather experts say monsoon activity is now strengthening over the city.
Rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds is likely to occur, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours until June 19. Residents have been advised to remain alert for sudden weather changes and possible traffic congestion caused by heavy showers.
The expected rainfall is likely to bring some relief from warm daytime temperatures while increasing moisture levels across the city.
Interior districts also under weather watch
Similar weather conditions are expected in several districts of south interior Karnataka, including Mysuru, Tumakuru, Kolar, Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru and Kodagu.
Meanwhile, districts such as Tumakuru, Chitradurga, Davanagere and Vijayanagara are expected to experience a combination of sunny and cloudy conditions, with scattered rainfall likely at isolated places.
Light to moderate rainfall is forecast to continue across many parts of south interior Karnataka during the coming days as the monsoon gradually strengthens.
Experts caution about possible rainfall deficit
Even as rainfall activity increases in the short term, meteorological reports suggest that the possible onset of El Niño conditions could affect seasonal rainfall patterns later this year.
Experts have indicated that Karnataka may experience below-normal rainfall between June and September if El Niño conditions intensify. In view of this possibility, farmers and agricultural workers have been advised to focus on rainwater harvesting and conservation measures while adequate rainfall is available.
Agriculture experts believe effective water storage during the early phase of the monsoon could help mitigate potential water shortages later in the season.
Public advised to follow safety precautions
Authorities have issued a series of advisories to ensure public safety during periods of thunderstorms and lightning.
People have been urged not to seek shelter under trees or remain in open areas during lightning activity. Residents living in low-lying areas have been advised to remain vigilant as heavy rainfall could lead to waterlogging and localised flooding.
Farmers, daily commuters and travellers have also been encouraged to monitor weather forecasts regularly and plan their activities accordingly.
With monsoon activity expected to strengthen further across Karnataka in the coming days, weather officials have urged the public to stay updated through official forecasts and follow precautionary measures to minimise risks associated with adverse weather conditions.