Coastal Weather Alert: Will Mangaluru, Udupi See Heavy Rains? Check Latest IMD Forecast

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Yellow alert for the coastal region of Karnataka, including Mangaluru and Udupi, from May 16 to 19. This alert signifies the possibility of intensified pre-monsoon rains in the area, with thunderstorms expected to accompany the rainfall.

On Wednesday, significant rainfall was recorded in several locations in Beltangady and Sullia. Mangaluru also experienced cloudy weather, with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 33.4°C to a minimum of 25°C.

Karavali Region Gets Early Rains as Prequel to Southwest Monsoon:

The Karavali region is experiencing early rains, serving as a curtain-raiser before the official Southwest Monsoon (SWM) season, which is expected to start in another approximately 15 days. Reports indicate that rains have already been observed this morning in the Uttara Kannada (UK) and Udupi districts.

A Welcome Respite for Coastal Areas:

Today promises to be a good day for the coast, with convergence right across the coast and ghats. This early rainfall is a welcome relief after a long and dry season, offering a refreshing change for residents and farmers alike.

In Udupi district, some areas suffered damage late Tuesday night due to heavy rain and strong winds. Homes belonging to Sarada Bhat, Prabhakart Bhat, Raghavendra Bhat, and others in Siddapur, as well as properties in Hosangady, Molahalli, and Brahmavar Heggunje, were affected. Shankar Madiwala in Ullur also reported damage.

The Udupi district recorded approximately 120 uprooted electrical poles, seven damaged transformers, and 1.32 kilometers of damaged electricity cable. Mescom, the electricity provider in the region, estimates a loss of about Rs 22 lakh due to the damage.

Monsoon expected to Hit Kerala by May 31

It must be noted that monsoon will hit the Kerala coast in the southwest on May 31, the state-run weather office said on Wednesday, offering relief to farmers after below average rainfall last year.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department defines average rainfall as between 96% and 104% of a 50-year average of 87 cm (35 inches) for the four-month season.

Plentiful monsoon rains could help farmers harvest bumper crops and prompt the government to consider easing rice export curbs, including on widely consumed non-basmati white rice over the last year and broken rice since 2022.