Bengaluru: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and 10 other districts of Karnataka over the next two days.
The weather department has issued a yellow alert for Wednesday, September 30, and Thursday, October 1, covering 12 districts across Karnataka’s coastal, Malnad and south interior regions.
Heavy rain likely in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi
Isolated places in coastal districts Dakshina Kannada and Udupi are likely to receive heavy rainfall during the two-day period. The downpours are expected to be accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, prompting the IMD to issue a yellow alert for the region.
Uttara Kannada is also expected to receive moderate rainfall, with thunderstorms and lightning likely at some places.
The forecast comes as parts of coastal Karnataka continue to experience changing weather conditions, with periods of rainfall interspersed with cloudy conditions. Residents in areas likely to receive heavy showers have been advised to remain cautious during thunderstorms, particularly in open areas.
Thunderstorms forecast in south interior districts
Several districts in south interior Karnataka are also expected to experience thunderstorms over the next two days.
The districts covered by the forecast include Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Chikkaballapur, Chikkamagaluru, Davanagere, Kodagu, Shivamogga, Hassan and Tumakuru.
While the intensity and distribution of rainfall may vary between districts, the IMD has warned of thunderstorms and lightning in these areas.
Most parts of north interior Karnataka, however, are expected to remain comparatively dry during the forecast period.
The contrasting weather pattern is likely to result in rainfall concentrated mainly over coastal, Malnad and parts of south interior Karnataka, while relatively dry conditions continue in northern districts.
Bengaluru likely to remain cloudy
For Bengaluru and surrounding areas, the IMD has forecast generally cloudy skies during the next 48 hours.
The city may receive heavy rainfall at isolated locations, while other parts could experience light to moderate showers. Thunderstorms are also expected, along with gusty winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 kmph.
The possibility of short-duration heavy showers could lead to temporary waterlogging and slower traffic movement in vulnerable parts of the city. Motorists may also face reduced visibility during intense rainfall and should exercise caution while travelling during thunderstorms.
The combination of thunderstorms and gusty winds could also affect outdoor activities, particularly during periods of lightning.
Yellow alert issued for 12 districts
The yellow alert indicates the possibility of weather conditions that require increased awareness and preparedness. With thunderstorms forecast across several districts, residents are advised to monitor official weather updates and take appropriate precautions during lightning activity.
People outdoors during thunderstorms should avoid exposed locations and seek shelter in safe buildings. Residents should also exercise caution around trees, electric poles and other structures that could pose risks during strong winds.
For coastal Karnataka, the forecast is particularly relevant as Dakshina Kannada and Udupi are expected to receive heavy rain at isolated locations, while neighbouring Uttara Kannada may see moderate rainfall with thunder and lightning.
North Karnataka likely to remain dry
The weather pattern is expected to remain relatively subdued over most parts of north interior Karnataka. The IMD has forecast dry weather over much of the region during the two-day period.
The difference between northern and southern parts of the state reflects the uneven distribution of rainfall expected during the forecast period. Coastal and Malnad districts are likely to see more active weather, while most northern districts are expected to remain comparatively dry.
Residents across Karnataka are advised to follow the latest IMD updates as weather conditions can change during the forecast period, particularly during the post-monsoon transition.
With heavy showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds expected in several parts of the state, caution is advised during outdoor travel, especially in areas covered by the yellow alert.