Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada district experienced heavy rainfall and thunderstorms on Tuesday evening, following a misty and slightly chilly morning. Areas including Mangaluru, Surathkal, Bantwal, Kalladka, Uppinangadi, Puttur, Beltangadi, Dharmasthala, Ujire, Naravi, Madanthyar, Kanyana, Vitla, Moodbidri, Ullal, and Manjeshwar, along with nearby regions, were affected by the downpour.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for October 22 and 23, warning residents about widespread heavy rain and thunderstorms along the coastal belt. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors and exercise caution while commuting.
Heavy rainfall disrupts daily life
In Puttur, heavy rain triggered a landslide near Macchimale, temporarily disrupting local road access. Authorities have dispatched teams to clear the debris and restore normal traffic movement.
In Udupi district, moderate rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning was reported in several areas. Similar weather conditions are expected to continue until October 25. The IMD forecast includes rainfall for Byndoor, Kundapura, Karkala, Hebri, Kota, Brahmavar, Malpe, Udupi, Manipal, Hiriyadka, Shirva, Katpadi, Kapu, and Padubidri. Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly in low-lying regions prone to flooding.
Lightning and property damage in Karkala
Continuous rainfall over the past few days in Karkala has caused additional hazards. Lightning strikes reportedly resulted in the death of two cows in Miyar village. Several households in Ajekaru, Kuntalapadi, and Kervashe reported damage to electrical appliances, including fans, televisions, and internet routers. Rain continues in Karkala, Hebri, Agumbe, Bajagoli, Muniyalu, and Kabbinale, maintaining the risk of landslides and waterlogging.
Heavy showers in Kasargod
The neighbouring Kasargod district also recorded heavy showers on Tuesday evening, particularly in Badiyadka, Kumbla, and Manjeshwar. Local authorities are monitoring water levels in rivers and streams to prevent potential flooding incidents.
Precautionary alerts by IMD
The IMD has issued local alerts for Wednesday, an orange alert for Thursday, and additional advisories for Friday and Saturday. Residents have been urged to avoid non-essential travel, secure loose objects, and stay informed about weather updates. Emergency services and disaster response teams have been placed on standby in both Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
With the monsoon season extending into late October, meteorologists warn that such extreme weather events could continue over the coming days. Authorities emphasise the importance of following official guidelines to mitigate risks associated with flooding, landslides, and lightning strikes.
Conclusion
As Dakshina Kannada and neighbouring regions brace for continued rainfall and thunderstorms, local administrations, residents, and travellers are urged to remain cautious and adhere to IMD advisories to ensure safety.