Bengaluru: Pre-monsoon activity is set to intensify across Karnataka from March 27 to April 2, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting widespread rainfall and issuing a yellow alert for nearly 14–15 districts, including Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.

According to the forecast, several parts of the state are likely to experience rain accompanied by thunder, lightning, and gusty winds over the next seven days.

Yellow alert across multiple districts

The yellow alert has been issued for districts such as Vijayapura, Bagalkote, Raichur, Koppal, Ballari, Chitradurga, Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Mysuru, Kodagu, Hassan, Chikkaballapur, Bengaluru Urban, and Kolar.

These regions may witness rainfall along with thunderstorms and winds ranging between 30 kmph and 50 kmph. Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious during adverse weather conditions.

Coastal and north Karnataka to receive early showers

For the next four days starting March 27, light to moderate rainfall is expected in coastal districts and parts of north Karnataka.

In Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada, isolated places are likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by rain, particularly during afternoon and evening hours.

Rainfall activity is expected to remain active in north Karnataka districts on March 28, driven by favourable atmospheric conditions.

Rain likely to intensify in southern regions

From March 29 onwards, rainfall is expected to increase in southern interior regions, including Bengaluru. Districts such as Kodagu, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga are also likely to receive thunder showers, especially in the later part of the day.

Similar weather conditions are forecast for parts of Mysuru, Tumakuru, and Chitradurga districts, with isolated rainfall expected.

Weather outlook for Bengaluru

Bengaluru is likely to witness good rainfall in the coming days, particularly during evening and night hours. Temperatures are expected to remain moderate, with a maximum of around 33°C and a minimum of about 20°C.

The rainfall is expected to bring temporary relief from rising temperatures, though intermittent showers may continue for several days.

Weather system behind rainfall

Meteorologists attribute the current weather pattern to an anti-cyclonic circulation over north Karnataka and parts of central India at mid-levels. This system is expected to enhance rainfall activity, especially in northern districts, before extending to southern interior regions after March 28.

Though rainfall intensity may reduce slightly over the next couple of days, forecasts indicate that the activity could persist until April 4 or 5.

Advisory for public

Authorities, including the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), have advised the public to take precautions during thunderstorms and lightning.

Residents are urged to seek shelter in safe locations during adverse weather, avoid open areas during lightning strikes, and stay updated through official weather bulletins.

Conclusion

The forecast of widespread pre-monsoon showers marks the onset of seasonal weather changes across Karnataka. While the rains are expected to provide relief from heat, residents are advised to remain alert and follow safety guidelines as the state experiences fluctuating weather conditions in the coming days.