Bengaluru: Parts of Bengaluru witnessed a thunderstorm accompanied by lightning on Friday evening, bringing much-needed relief from the prevailing summer heat.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Bengaluru City observatory recorded 1.5 mm of rainfall by 8.30 pm, marking the first pre-monsoon shower in April this year.
First pre-monsoon rain of April
The rainfall came after the city experienced one of its hottest days of the season, with the maximum temperature touching 35.4°C earlier in the day. The sudden change in weather brought down temperatures and provided temporary respite to residents.
At 5.30 pm, the city recorded a maximum temperature of 34.8°C and a minimum of 24.4°C. At the HAL airport, temperatures stood at 34.5°C (maximum) and 23.4°C (minimum).
Temperature variations across locations
While rainfall brought some cooling in central parts of the city, temperatures remained relatively higher at Kempegowda International Airport, where the maximum temperature was recorded at 35.5°C and the minimum at 24°C.
The variation in temperature across locations highlights the isolated nature of the rainfall, which was limited to certain parts of the city.
IMD forecast for coming days
The India Meteorological Department has forecast a partly cloudy sky for Bengaluru in the coming days. The weather agency expects maximum temperatures to hover around 34°C and minimum temperatures around 24°C until 8.30 am on Sunday.
Such pre-monsoon showers are typical during this period and are often accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning activity.
Relief but short-lived
Though the rainfall provided immediate relief from the heat, officials indicated that the impact is likely to be temporary, with temperatures expected to remain above normal levels in the coming days.
However, the onset of pre-monsoon activity signals a gradual transition towards more frequent showers as the season progresses.
Conclusion
The brief thunderstorm in Bengaluru has brought a welcome break from rising temperatures, offering relief to residents after days of intense heat. With more pre-monsoon activity expected, weather conditions are likely to remain dynamic in the days ahead.