Bengaluru Weather Swelters as IMD Warns Heatwave with Orange, Yellow Alerts Across Karnataka

Large parts of Karnataka are reeling under intense heat, with several regions recording temperatures well above typical April levels. The India Meteorological Department has flagged persistent hot conditions across the state, raising immediate concerns over public health, water usage, and overall heat stress.

In Kalaburagi district, temperatures have surged to between 44°C and 45°C, among the highest recorded this season. Meanwhile, Bengaluru has also been experiencing unusually warm days, with temperatures nearing 36°C and expected to rise further.

Bengaluru, Kalaburagi Brace for More Heat

Bengaluru recorded 36.6°C earlier this week, its hottest day of 2026 so far, before slightly easing. However, IMD scientists have warned that temperatures in the city could climb to around 38°C in the coming days. Dry weather conditions are expected to dominate, with only isolated thundershowers in a few pockets offering minimal relief.

The situation is more severe in Kalaburagi, where temperatures are running 3°C to 4°C above normal. Some areas have already touched 45°C, and forecasts suggest the mercury could rise even further. Authorities have urged residents to avoid outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours and stay hydrated.

Heat Wave Alerts Across Karnataka

The IMD has issued orange and yellow alerts for several parts of the state, particularly in the Kalyana Karnataka region, indicating continued heatwave conditions. Coastal and northern districts including Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Uttara Kannada, Gadag, Haveri, Dharwad, and Belagavi are also under warnings for hot and humid weather.

These widespread alerts reflect the scale of heat stress affecting Karnataka, with both inland and coastal regions experiencing difficult conditions.

Weak Monsoon Outlook Raises Bigger Concerns

Amid the ongoing heatwave, the IMD has also projected a challenging southwest monsoon for 2026. According to its long-range forecast, India is likely to receive about 92% of the long period average rainfall, placing the season in the "below normal" category.

Within this broader outlook, Karnataka is expected to receive weaker-than-normal rainfall between June and September. This has raised concerns about drought risk and water availability across the state.

Water Security, Agriculture at Risk

Experts warn that a weak monsoon could worsen the existing water stress, particularly in Bengaluru, which depends heavily on Cauvery river water and groundwater recharge through rainfall. Reservoir levels have already dropped after prolonged heat and limited inflows.

The agriculture sector is also vulnerable, especially in rain-fed areas of North Interior Karnataka where crops such as paddy, maize, pulses, and oilseeds depend on timely monsoon rains. Any delay or uneven distribution of rainfall could disrupt sowing cycles and reduce yields.

Regional Rainfall Patterns May Vary

IMD's division-wise forecast suggests that while all regions are likely to face some deficit, South Interior Karnataka may receive relatively better rainfall compared to the north, though still below normal. Coastal Karnataka, which typically receives heavy rainfall, is also expected to record a shortfall this season.

This combined weakness across regions could reduce inflows into major reservoirs and river systems, affecting drinking water supply, irrigation, and power generation.

Sharp Shift From Last Year

The 2026 outlook marks a sharp contrast to 2025, when Karnataka recorded surplus rainfall. The sudden shift highlights the increasing variability in monsoon patterns and the growing challenge of managing water resources.

With extreme heat already gripping the state and reservoirs under pressure, Karnataka now faces a dual challenge of coping with immediate heatwave conditions while preparing for a potentially weak monsoon season.