Heavy rainfall and alerts across Karnataka: Monsoon arrives early

Karnataka is bracing for a week of heavy rainfall, with the monsoon season entering the state ahead of schedule. Meteorological departments have issued alerts for several districts, including red, orange, and yellow alerts based on the intensity of rainfall expected over the coming days. As the monsoon arrives earlier than anticipated, the state has already experienced rainfall that exceeds the usual seasonal expectations.

Also Read:Bengaluru rains wreak havoc, urban infrastructure at stake!

Weather alerts and rainfall forecast:

The coastal and hilly regions of Karnataka are set to receive intense rainfall, with a red alert issued for coastal areas and the Western Ghats. The coastal districts will face the heaviest rainfall on May 21 and 22. yellow alerts have been issued for areas such as Dakshina Kannada and Udupi on May 23, while orange alerts are in place for Uttara Kannada on May 23.

In the interior regions, districts like Bagalkote, Bidar, and Dharwad will experience yellow alerts between May 21 and 27, with rain intensifying on certain days. Some districts, including Chikkaballapur, Kalaburagi, and Haveri, will experience orange alerts, while other areas will be marked by moderate rain.

Details on monsoon's early arrival:

This year, the monsoon has arrived earlier than expected, with the state already receiving more rainfall than usual. As of now, Bengaluru has already recorded 276.5 mm of rainfall in May, surpassing the average rainfall of 128.7 mm typically seen during this time. The record rainfall in Bengaluru has already broken previous records, with Sunday alone receiving 132 mm of rain. In 2023, the city saw a record-breaking 305 mm of rain in May.

Monsoon forecast:

• Kerala is also expected to see the early arrival of the monsoon, which is likely to spread across Karnataka in the coming days.
• The state’s cumulative rainfall has exceeded expectations, and with the official entry of the monsoon by May 27, further heavy rainfall is expected.
• The current weather conditions indicate that Karnataka may experience its wettest May in recent years.

Recent historical rainfall data for May (Last 10 Years):

• 2024: 181.5 mm
• 2023: 305.4 mm (Record)
• 2022: 270.2 mm
• 2021: 130.7 mm
• 2020: 129.1 mm
• 2019: 155.3 mm
• 2018: 239.8 mm
• 2017: 241.9 mm
• 2016: 140.6 mm
• 2015: 178.4 mm

As of now, Bengaluru is on track to surpass its historical May rainfall records, which are a cause for concern as the city continues to face the effects of heavy downpours.