Karnataka Faces Heavy Rains as IMD Issues Multi-District Alerts

Image Source: OneIndia

Karnataka is currently in the grip of intense monsoon activity, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a series of weather alerts across coastal and interior districts. From overflowing rivers in Bidar to school closures in Dakshina Kannada, the state is witnessing widespread disruption due to heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. The alerts range from red to yellow, indicating varying degrees of severity and prompting precautionary measures from district administrations.

Key developments

1. Red alert in coastal districts
- Dakshina Kannada and Udupi have been placed under a red alert, signaling extremely heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and thunderstorms
- Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to stay indoors, and fishermen have been warned against venturing into the sea
- District administrations have declared holidays for schools, anganwadis, and pre-university colleges in Mangaluru, Puttur, Mulki, Moodbidri, Ullal, and Bantwal taluks

2. Yellow alert across interior Karnataka
- Udupi, Bidar, Vijayapura, Bagalkote, Kalaburagi, and other districts are under a yellow alert, forecasting heavy rain between 6 to 11 cm
- In Bidar, overnight showers caused rivers and streams to overflow, submerging bridges like Dadagi in Bhalki taluk and triggering road closures
- Schools and colleges in affected areas have been shut as a safety measure

3. Orange alert in Bengaluru and surrounding regions
- Bengaluru Urban and Rural, Chikkaballapur, Kolar, and parts of Mysuru are under an orange alert, indicating very heavy rainfall between 11 to 20 cm
- The city is currently experiencing moderate to heavy showers with strong winds, leading to traffic snarls, waterlogging, and power outages
- Civic bodies like BBMP are on high alert to manage tree falls, blocked roads, and drainage issues

Rainfall data snapshot (August 27–28)

- Mangaluru Airport: 106.6 mm
- Gadag: 70.1 mm
- Bengaluru HAL: 28.2 mm
- Chitradurga: 14.8 mm
- Kalaburagi: 10.4 mm
- Bengaluru City: 4.9 mm
- Honnavar: 87.7 mm
- Karwar: 55.4 mm
- Bidar: 26.2 mm
- Shaktinagar: 11.3 mm

Forecast outlook

- August 29–30: Very heavy rainfall expected in coastal districts
- August 31–September 1: Continued heavy showers with strong surface winds
- September 2–3: Rainfall likely to persist, though intensity may slightly reduce

Precautionary measures advised

- Avoid travel through waterlogged or low-lying areas
- Unplug electrical appliances during thunderstorms
- Stay away from trees, lakes, and riversides
- Drive cautiously and keep emergency contacts handy
- Civic agencies are actively clearing blocked drains and fallen trees

Temperature trends across Karnataka

- Bengaluru: Max 29.2°C, Min 21.0°C
- HAL Airport: Max 29.7°C, Min 20.4°C
- Kempegowda Airport: Max 30.2°C
- Jakkur Aerodrome: Max 28.4°C, Min 19.8°C
- Mangalore Airport: Max 29.8°C, Min 23.9°C
- Bidar: Max 30.0°C, Min 20.0°C
- Kalaburagi: Max 31.6°C, Min 21.4°C
- Raichur: Max 30.8°C, Min 21.4°C

Public advisory

The IMD has urged residents across Karnataka to remain vigilant over the next few days. With alerts in place for over 20 districts, the risk of flooding, traffic disruptions, and infrastructure strain remains high. District administrations are coordinating with local agencies to ensure swift response to emergencies and public grievances.

Sources: News18, OneIndia, GoodReturns, Deccan Herald, The Daily Jagran, MSN India