When It Rains, It Pours—Karnataka Sees the Most May Showers in 125 Years

Karnataka has made meteorological history, recording its highest May rainfall in 125 years, as announced by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on May 30, 2025. The state’s 28 districts have received rainfall well above the normal average, with authorities confirming that as of May 29, Karnataka has received 270 mm of rain against an expected 108 mm—more than double the usual amount. This unprecedented deluge has led to widespread disruption, but also spurred urgent government action to protect and assist affected communities.

 

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah convened a high-level meeting with district officials and urged them to immediately assess rain-damaged areas and provide swift compensation. He assured that over Rs 1,000 crore is available under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) to address damages, with immediate relief of Rs 1.20 lakh for families whose houses have been completely destroyed. The government has also issued strict guidelines for rapid compensation and the construction of new homes for those displaced.

 

Precautionary measures, including the evacuation of residents from landslide-prone regions, have been prioritized to prevent loss of life. Task forces at the Gram Panchayat level have been activated to coordinate flood response and ensure that both temporary and permanent solutions are implemented, especially in low-lying and waterlogged areas of Bengaluru and other cities.

 

The heavy rains, arriving weeks ahead of the usual monsoon schedule, have also set new records in Bengaluru, which has experienced its wettest May ever, with 307.9 mm of rainfall by May 26. With the monsoon advancing rapidly, officials remain on high alert as the region braces for further showers.

 

Source: NDTV