Mangaluru (Karnataka): The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for coastal Karnataka, including Dakshina Kannada district, after heavy rainfall lashed Mangaluru on Saturday, bringing normal life to a standstill.

The downpour, which began in the afternoon, led to widespread waterlogging in several parts of the city. Streets in low-lying areas such as Car Street, Lower Bendur, Kottara, and the stretch under the Pumpwell flyover were inundated, severely disrupting traffic. A bus broke down in one of the flooded areas and had to be manually pushed to safety by passengers and local residents.

Flooding was also reported at the Padil railway underpass, further affecting vehicular movement. Rainwater entered multiple homes in vulnerable neighbourhoods, adding to the hardship of residents.

Although the IMD had issued red alerts earlier this week with minimal rainfall, Saturday's showers were significantly more intense. Overcast skies suggest the possibility of continued heavy downpours over the weekend.

The red alert will remain in effect until the morning of June 16. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, especially in flood-prone areas, as more rain is expected to lash the region.