Karnataka on rain alert: IMD issues orange, yellow warnings for over 20 districts; thunderstorms expected

Karnataka: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast generally overcast skies with the possibility of light rainfall over Bengaluru through to Wednesday. In the latter half of the week, the city is expected to experience partly cloudy skies, with no significant rainfall likely. Maximum temperatures across most regions of the state are predicted to hover around 32°C.

Meanwhile, the IMD has issued a forecast indicating heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms across almost all districts in Karnataka over the next five to seven days.

The forecast indicates a significant increase in rainfall activity over the coming week, with anticipated rainfall ranging between 110 mm and 200 mm. Several districts are expected to receive heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms. The forecast also includes the issuance of 'Orange' and 'Yellow' alerts in various areas

Rainfall to begin moderately before intensifying midweek

On June 9, moderate rainfall is expected across the coastal districts, while the interior regions are likely to witness light to moderate showers. This marks the beginning of an extended wet spell across the state.

From June 10 to 12, the rainfall is forecast to become widespread, affecting most regions of Karnataka. However, the most intense phase of rainfall is predicted between June 13 and June 15, during which alerts have been issued for multiple districts.

Yellow alerts issued for June 13

A Yellow Alert has been issued on June 13 for all three coastal districts, along with Belagavi, Dharwad, Bidar, Gadag, Haveri, Ballari, Davanagere, Shivamogga, and Vijayapura. These areas may witness heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, prompting residents to exercise caution.

The following day, on June 14, the Yellow Alert extends to Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Bagalkot, Bidar, Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, Ballari, Chitradurga, Davanagere, and Vijayanagara.

In addition, an Orange Alert has been declared for Shivamogga, Haveri, Gadag, Dharwad, Belagavi, and Uttara Kannada districts, where rainfall is expected to be significantly heavier and may cause localised flooding or disruptions.

Orange and yellow alerts continue into June 15

On June 15, an Orange Alert will be in effect for all coastal districts, as well as the interior districts of Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu, and Shivamogga. These areas are likely to experience intense rainfall, potentially reaching dangerous levels.

Meanwhile, a Yellow Alert has been issued for Vijayanagara, Davanagere, Chitradurga, Ballari, Vijayapura, Kalaburagi, Bidar, and Bagalkot, indicating the possibility of continued moderate to heavy rainfall.

Precautions advised as monsoon intensifies

Residents across the state, particularly in areas under Orange and Yellow Alerts, are advised to stay updated with IMD notifications and prepare for potential travel delays, waterlogging, or power disruptions. 

Bengaluru escapes heavy rainfall while North Karnataka faces damage

In Bengaluru, only mild drizzles were reported on Saturday in localities such as HSR Layout, Banaswadi, Jayanagar, and Bommanahalli. No substantial rainfall was recorded in the past 24 hours.

Although thunderstorm activity began to develop over the city during the evening hours, it eventually dissipated without delivering meaningful showers.

Higher temperatures and humidity persist in the capital

Bengaluru registered a maximum temperature of 31.8°C on Saturday, approximately 1.5°C above the seasonal norm. The minimum temperature was recorded at 21.6°C. Elevated humidity levels continued to exacerbate discomfort for residents, with the ongoing dry spell adding to the city’s sultry conditions.