Kadaba: A 66-year-old man lost his life after an arecanut tree snapped and fell on him during heavy rain and strong winds while he was working in a plantation at Kewala in Kunthuru village of Kadaba taluk on Thursday.
The deceased has been identified as Yadava Gowda (66). He was reportedly engaged in routine work in the plantation when the tragic incident occurred amid adverse weather conditions affecting parts of Dakshina Kannada district.
Incident occurred during heavy rain
According to reports, Yadava Gowda was working in an arecanut plantation at Kewala when a sudden spell of heavy rain accompanied by strong winds lashed the area.
The strong winds are believed to have caused an arecanut tree to snap unexpectedly. The tree fell directly on Yadava Gowda, leaving him critically injured.
The impact of the falling tree was severe, and he died on the spot before any medical assistance could reach him.
Weather-related tragedy
The incident is among several weather-related mishaps reported from Dakshina Kannada in recent days as continuous rainfall and gusty winds have caused trees to fall, damaged houses and disrupted normal life across the district.
Authorities have repeatedly advised residents, particularly those working in plantations and agricultural fields, to exercise caution during periods of intense rain and strong winds, as saturated soil and unstable trees increase the risk of such accidents.
Plantation workers are especially vulnerable during the monsoon, as strong winds can weaken or uproot arecanut, coconut and other trees without warning.
Monsoon continues to pose risks
Heavy rainfall has continued to affect several parts of Kadaba and neighbouring taluks, resulting in damage to houses, roads and electricity infrastructure. Gusty winds accompanying the rain have further increased the likelihood of trees snapping or falling.
Residents have been urged to avoid working in plantations during severe weather whenever possible and to remain alert to changing weather conditions.
Local authorities continue to monitor the impact of the monsoon and respond to reports of rain-related incidents across the district.
The death of Yadava Gowda serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather during the monsoon season, particularly for people working outdoors in plantation areas.