Several regions across Karnataka were affected by thunderstorms, gusty winds, and rain over the weekend, with both damage and disruptions reported. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the coastal region on April 21, predicting intensified pre-monsoon activity.
The Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts are expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall with thunderstorms. Mangaluru, which recorded a maximum temperature of 33.1°C, saw intermittent rain on Sunday.
In Hassan district, a tragic incident occurred in B T Koppal where a KSRTC employee lost his life after stepping on a live wire downed by heavy rain. In Kuniganahalli, a fallen power pole damaged an autorickshaw during the storm.
In Nelamangala (Bengaluru Rural), heavy showers led to significant damage. Several homes, a school building, and the Stree Shakti Bhavan reported roof and structural damage. Uprooted coconut and areca trees contributed to the disruption. In Devanahalli, over two hours of continuous rain caused waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Further south in Gundlupet (Chamarajanagar district), banana plantations were damaged by strong winds and heavy rainfall. Power poles and trees were also uprooted in several parts of the region.
Light rain was also reported from Chikkaballapur, Haveri, Gadag, Chikkamagaluru, Davanagere, and Koppal, signaling the start of the pre-monsoon phase across the state.
Authorities are urging caution and monitoring weather patterns closely as the season intensifies.
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