Bengaluru: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Bengaluru till May 25 as the city continues to witness heavy rain, thunderstorms and sudden weather changes after days of intense summer heat.

According to the latest forecast, widespread rainfall activity is expected across South Interior Karnataka and the Malnad region over the next few days, with Bengaluru likely to experience intermittent showers, lightning and gusty winds through the weekend.

The sudden shift in weather has already caused waterlogging, traffic congestion and disruptions in several parts of the city.

IMD issues yellow alert for Bengaluru

The India Meteorological Department has predicted thunderstorms accompanied by lightning across Bengaluru till Sunday, May 25.

Officials said temperatures are expected to remain relatively cooler due to continuous rainfall activity, with minimum temperatures likely to hover around 21 degrees Celsius.

According to the IMD forecast:

Saturday, May 23

  • Maximum temperature: 33°C
  • Minimum temperature: 21°C
  • Weather condition: Thunderstorm with rain
  • Alert status: Yellow alert

Sunday, May 24

  • Maximum temperature: 33°C
  • Minimum temperature: 22°C
  • Weather condition: Partly cloudy sky with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers
  • Alert status: Yellow alert

While light rainfall may continue into next week, no fresh alert has currently been issued beyond Sunday.

Heavy rain causes flooding and traffic chaos

Several parts of Bengaluru witnessed severe waterlogging and traffic disruption following intense rainfall and thunderstorms earlier this week.

Roads in many areas resembled overflowing streams as rainwater accumulated rapidly during evening peak hours.

Office commuters faced long delays while motorists struggled to navigate flooded roads and low-visibility conditions caused by heavy rain and hailstorms.

The sudden weather change also affected public transport movement in some stretches, with traffic moving slowly across major junctions and arterial roads.

Areas prone to flooding and poor drainage reportedly experienced the worst impact as rainwater entered service roads and underpasses.

Residents shared videos and images on social media showing vehicles partially submerged and pedestrians wading through waterlogged streets.

Sudden weather shift after intense heat

Bengaluru has witnessed fluctuating weather patterns over the past few weeks, transitioning from extreme daytime heat to sudden thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

Weather experts say the ongoing pre-monsoon activity is contributing to unstable atmospheric conditions across Karnataka.

The Malnad region and parts of South Interior Karnataka are also expected to receive fairly widespread rainfall during this period.

The changing weather has brought temporary relief from high temperatures but has also increased concerns regarding urban flooding, traffic management and public safety.

IMD issues safety advisory

Amid the continuing rainfall and thunderstorm activity, the IMD has issued precautionary guidelines for residents.

Authorities have advised people to remain indoors during lightning and thunderstorms wherever possible.

Residents have also been asked to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rain due to waterlogging and reduced road visibility.

The advisory further recommends:

  • Avoid standing under trees or near electric poles during thunderstorms
  • Unplug electrical and electronic devices during lightning activity
  • Drive cautiously on slippery roads
  • Stay alert in flood-prone and low-lying areas

Officials have urged commuters to monitor weather updates before travelling, especially during evening hours when thunderstorms are more likely.

Metro and traffic pressure likely to increase

Heavy rainfall during peak office hours is also expected to place additional pressure on Bengaluru’s already congested roads and public transport systems.

Traffic congestion typically worsens significantly during intense rainfall due to slow-moving vehicles, waterlogging and reduced visibility.

Commuters travelling through key junctions and outer ring road stretches may experience longer travel times if heavy showers continue over the weekend.

Urban planners and residents have repeatedly raised concerns about Bengaluru’s drainage infrastructure, which struggles to handle sudden high-intensity rainfall events.

More rain expected across Karnataka

Apart from Bengaluru, several districts across Karnataka are also likely to receive moderate to heavy rainfall over the coming days.

The weather department has indicated continued thunderstorm activity in parts of coastal Karnataka, Malnad and interior regions as pre-monsoon conditions remain active.

Authorities are expected to remain on alert in districts vulnerable to flooding, strong winds and lightning-related incidents.

For Bengaluru residents, the weekend is likely to remain cloudy and wet, with rain continuing to influence daily commuting and outdoor activities across the city.