Mangaluru: Just weeks after concerns emerged over a monsoon rainfall deficit in parts of Karnataka, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a significant increase in rainfall activity across the state. The weather department has issued heavy rainfall warnings for several coastal, Malnad and interior districts over the next 24 hours, with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds expected to accompany the downpour.
The IMD has identified the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada, along with the Malnad districts of Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan and Kodagu, as the regions likely to receive the heaviest rainfall. Authorities have urged residents in these districts to remain alert as weather conditions are expected to deteriorate.
Coastal and Malnad districts under heavy rain warning
According to the IMD forecast, widespread rainfall is likely across Karnataka, with the highest intensity expected over the coastal belt and the Western Ghats region. Dakshina Kannada, Udupi and Uttara Kannada are likely to experience persistent heavy showers, while the hilly districts of Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan and Kodagu may witness intense rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms.
The weather department has also predicted lightning activity and gusty surface winds reaching speeds of 40 kmph to 50 kmph in several districts. Such weather conditions could lead to temporary disruptions in transport, reduced visibility on roads and localised waterlogging in vulnerable areas.
The latest forecast comes after a fortnight during which several parts of Karnataka experienced below-normal rainfall, raising concerns among farmers and water resource managers about the progress of the southwest monsoon.
Thunderstorms likely in Bengaluru and southern districts
Apart from the coastal and Malnad regions, the IMD has also forecast thundershowers in several interior districts, including Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Ramanagara, Mandya and Mysuru.
These districts are expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall along with lightning and strong winds during the forecast period. Residents have been advised to remain cautious while travelling, particularly during periods of intense rain and thunderstorms.
Officials have noted that changing monsoon patterns can result in short-duration but intense rainfall events, increasing the possibility of urban flooding in low-lying localities and traffic disruptions in major cities.
Yellow and orange alerts issued
In view of the forecast, the IMD has issued yellow and orange alerts for various vulnerable districts across Karnataka. These alerts are intended to help district administrations prepare for possible weather-related incidents and enable emergency response agencies to remain on standby.
Authorities have advised people residing in low-lying and flood-prone areas to stay vigilant and monitor official weather updates. Local administrations are expected to keep a close watch on rivers, streams and areas susceptible to flooding or landslides, particularly in the Western Ghats region.
Public advised to follow safety precautions
The IMD has issued several precautionary advisories to minimise the risks associated with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
Residents have been urged to avoid venturing near rivers, lakes, reservoirs and other water bodies during periods of heavy rain. Strong currents and sudden rises in water levels can pose a serious danger, particularly in low-lying areas.
Fishermen have been specifically warned against venturing into the Arabian Sea as rough sea conditions are likely to prevail along the Karnataka coast during the warning period.
Farmers have also been advised to take preventive measures to avoid waterlogging in agricultural fields wherever possible. Adequate drainage arrangements and timely field management could help minimise crop damage resulting from excessive rainfall.
The IMD has further cautioned people against taking shelter under trees or near electric poles during thunderstorms, as lightning strikes and falling branches pose significant safety risks. Motorists have been advised to exercise caution while driving in heavy rain due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.
Authorities urge residents to stay updated
With rainfall activity expected to intensify over the next 24 hours, officials have appealed to the public to follow advisories issued by the IMD and district administrations. Citizens are encouraged to monitor weather bulletins and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain unless essential.
The forecast marks a notable shift in Karnataka’s monsoon pattern after recent concerns over deficient rainfall. While the expected showers are likely to improve rainfall levels across several districts, authorities continue to stress the importance of preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines to minimise the impact of adverse weather conditions.