Mangaluru: A developing low-pressure system over the Malacca and South Andaman Sea regions has intensified weather activity across the Karnataka coast, bringing widespread rainfall to Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts. The system, extending across the Bay of Bengal and Sri Lanka, is moving in a west-northwesterly direction and may develop into a cyclone within the next 48 hours, according to meteorologists.
Rain lashes Dakshina Kannada and Udupi
Heavy rain, thunder and strong winds continued across several parts of Dakshina Kannada on Saturday night and Sunday. Areas such as Beltangady, Guruvayankere, Ujire, Dharmasthala, Savanalu, Kadirudyavar, Balanja, Mundaje, Kadaba, Siribagilu, Bajpe, Kateel and Mulki recorded strong spells of rain. Mangaluru city witnessed intense downpours around 8 p.m., resulting in waterlogging in pockets of the city and slowing vehicular movement.
Residents also reported brief power disruptions due to lightning. With many auspicious events planned on Sunday night, the sudden showers caused inconvenience, forcing organisers to move outdoor arrangements indoors. Traffic police managed congestion in areas affected by flooding.
In Udupi taluk, several neighbourhoods experienced thunder and rain late on Saturday. Although skies remained cloudy and thunder persisted through Sunday, the region escaped further rainfall. However, the IMD has forecast continued rain in both Dakshina Kannada and Udupi for two more days as the weather system intensifies.
IMD forecasts continued rainfall
Meteorologists have attributed the ongoing wet spell to the combined influence of the low-pressure area and the Northeast Monsoon. November generally brings cooler conditions and dew formation in coastal Karnataka, but this year’s unseasonal rains have disrupted the usual pattern.
The developing system over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify further, and if it strengthens into a cyclone, wind speeds along the coast may increase. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea until conditions improve, as rough seas and strong winds are expected.
Farmers fear crop damage
Farmers in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi are worried about the possible agricultural impact of continued rainfall. Arecanut growers fear that trees may fail to yield properly and may shed immature nuts prematurely due to excess moisture. Freshly harvested arecanut also cannot be dried in humid weather, increasing the risk of fungal infections.
Hybrid paddy cultivation, currently underway in parts of the region, is also at risk. Agricultural experts warn that unseasonal rains can trigger crop diseases, affecting productivity. Farmers dependent on straw-based fodder fear a possible shortage if rains continue, as storage of fodder becomes difficult during prolonged wet weather.
Districts on alert as weather evolves
District administrations in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi are closely monitoring the developing system. Emergency teams have been placed on standby, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging, flash floods or minor landslips. While no major incidents have been reported so far, authorities have urged residents to exercise caution, especially during thunderstorms.
As coastal Karnataka prepares for the next phase of unpredictable weather, residents and farmers hope the system moves away without causing significant damage. The next 48 hours will likely determine the extent of its impact on the region.