Mangaluru: The coastal districts of Karnataka — Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada — have been experiencing heavy and persistent rains this monsoon season. Remarkably, over 50% of the season’s average rainfall has already been recorded just midway through.

Typically spanning June to September, the monsoon usually brings around 3,101 mm of rainfall to the region. This year, by mid-July, the region has already received 1,637 mm, marking a 9% rise over the seasonal norm.

District-wise Breakdown

  • Dakshina Kannada: 1,789 mm (avg. 1,649 mm) — +9%

  • Udupi: 2,145 mm (avg. 1,955 mm) — +10%

  • Uttara Kannada: 1,388 mm (avg. 1,273 mm) — +9%

    • Top Rainfall Spots

    • Sullia (DK): +22%

  • Kundapur (Udupi): +12%

  • Bantwal (DK): +26%

  • Byndoor (Udupi): +14%

    • However, Belthangady, Puttur, Mulki, Ullal, and Hebri recorded below-average rain, while Mangaluru city remains close to the norm.

    Monsoon’s Early Start

    Unusually, the southwest monsoon entered Karnataka on May 24, earlier than its typical arrival in early June. Despite the early onset, the rain has been consistent across the region.

    Historical Context

    • 2018: 3,104 mm (0%)

  • 2019: 3,734 mm (+20%)

  • 2020: 3,458 mm (+12%)

  • 2021: 2,692 mm (–13%)

  • 2022: 3,107 mm (0%)

  • 2023: 2,514 mm (–19%)

  • 2024: Projected 3,101 mm (+20%)

    • The Indian Meteorological Department expects steady rainfall to continue, likely helping the region meet or exceed its seasonal average.