Mangaluru: As temperatures continue to soar across Dakshina Kannada district, rising humidity levels are adding to the discomfort, making weather conditions increasingly difficult for residents. Over the past week, temperatures in several parts of the district have fluctuated between 35 and 38 degrees Celsius, while moisture in the atmosphere has intensified the sultry conditions.
According to weather experts, the district is currently witnessing an unusual weather pattern in which humidity levels are rising steadily even during slight drops in temperature. The combined effect of heat and moisture has significantly affected daily life, especially in coastal regions where humidity remains naturally high.
Meteorologists say the development of low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean during the coming days will play a crucial role in determining the arrival of summer showers and the onset of the southwest monsoon along the Karnataka coast.
Heat and humidity create uncomfortable conditions
Residents across Mangaluru and surrounding areas have been experiencing intense daytime heat accompanied by high humidity levels. The increased moisture in the atmosphere has resulted in excessive sweating, discomfort, and fatigue, even during evening hours.
Weather observers noted that while temperatures have remained within the range commonly seen during peak summer, the unusual rise in humidity has made the weather feel much hotter than actual recorded temperatures. The lack of strong winds and reduced rainfall activity have further worsened the situation.
Experts explained that evaporation of moisture from the land and sea has contributed to the sticky and oppressive conditions currently prevailing across coastal Karnataka. Humidity levels have continued to remain high despite occasional cloud cover and slight variations in temperature.
Many residents have reported difficulty carrying out outdoor activities during afternoon hours due to the combined impact of heat and moisture. Health experts have also advised people to remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak daytime hours.
Light rainfall likely in parts of district
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), isolated light rainfall is expected in a few parts of Dakshina Kannada district on May 8 and 9. However, scientists stated that the prevailing heat conditions are likely to continue for at least the next few days.
Usually, May witnesses pre-monsoon showers and occasional summer rains across the coastal belt. This year, however, rainfall activity has remained weaker than expected, resulting in prolonged dry and humid conditions.
Meteorologists indicated that the nature and movement of emerging low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal and the equatorial Indian Ocean will influence the progress of the monsoon towards the Karnataka coast.
Monsoon arrival may depend on low-pressure systems
Weather experts explained that if the low-pressure system expected to form in the Bay of Bengal during the next few days moves towards northern regions, and if a strong cyclone developing near the equatorial Indian Ocean shifts towards the Arabian Sea, the onset of the southwest monsoon could face delays.
On the other hand, if the intensity of the low-pressure systems strengthens towards the western side, there is a possibility that the monsoon could reach the coastal region between May 20 and 25.
Scientists added that rainfall activity during May is expected to remain limited unless the monsoon becomes active earlier than anticipated. Significant rainfall is likely only after the full advancement of monsoon systems over the coastal belt.
An IMD scientist stated that pre-monsoon rain indicators, which are usually visible by this time of the year, have remained weak so far.
“Pre-monsoon rain indicators should have been visible by now. However, it depends on how strong or weak the low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal will be. Summer rains have not occurred in the expected quantity,” the scientist said.
Unseasonal rains affected monsoon pattern
According to weather officials, unseasonal rainfall recorded during March and April this year has also contributed to changes in seasonal weather patterns and may have affected the timing of the monsoon.
The moisture generated during those months reportedly shifted towards interior regions of Karnataka, resulting in intermittent rainfall in several parts of the state. However, rainfall distribution across the coastal belt remained uneven.
Areas such as Sullia and Subrahmanya received rainfall during recent weeks, while several other regions in Dakshina Kannada remained largely dry. Experts believe this uneven rainfall pattern has delayed the formation of consistent pre-monsoon conditions across the district.
Residents advised to remain cautious
With humidity and temperatures expected to remain high over the coming days, health experts have advised residents to take necessary precautions against dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
People have been encouraged to drink adequate water, avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, and wear light cotton clothing. Elderly individuals, children, and those with existing health conditions have been advised to remain especially cautious during the ongoing weather conditions.
Meteorologists continue to closely monitor developments over the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, as these systems are expected to decide when coastal Karnataka will finally receive meaningful rainfall relief.