Haveri district witnessed intense pre-monsoon showers in May, far surpassing the average rainfall expected for the month. As of May 27, rainfall levels reached 118.8 mm, nearly double the normal 60 mm for the period. This extreme weather led to seven fatalities and the loss of 53 animals, largely due to lightning strikes, gusty winds, and structural collapses.
In April, rainfall measured 50.8 mm, exceeding the usual 40.4 mm, while the past week alone recorded 75.2 mm, vastly above the average 14.9 mm. As a result of the unseasonal weather, 90 homes were damaged; however, only nine compensation claims have been approved. The administration has released Rs 4.2 lakh in relief so far.
Among the tragic incidents, Shantavva Talawar (55) of Kirawadi village, Hangal taluk, lost her life after a house wall collapsed due to persistent rains. Five others died due to lightning, with incidents reported from various taluks between April 24 and May 23.
Infrastructure damage is estimated at Rs 2.9 crore. Farming was also hit hard—132 hectares of crops were affected with Rs 17 lakh in compensation pending, and 53.8 hectares of horticultural land require Rs 7.9 lakh for damage relief.
The district administration has been urged to ramp up preventive efforts ahead of the main monsoon season.
“Public should avoid unsafe buildings during heavy rain. Officials are directed to stay alert and respond swiftly,” said Deputy Commissioner Vijay Mahantesh Danammanavar.
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