Heavy Rains Batter Bengaluru: Flights Diverted, Waterlogged Streets

After three consecutive days of rain that had already thrown Bengaluru's daily routines into disarray, heavy overnight downpours further intensified the situation. Waterlogged streets and low-lying areas turned into virtual ponds as residents woke up on Tuesday to yet another rainy day, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting even more showers ahead.

Monday night saw the city's skies light up with thunderstorms, particularly affecting northern regions. The weather chaos didn't just impact those on the ground-over 20 flights were delayed, and several had to be diverted. Among them, an Air India flight from Delhi and four Indigo flights were rerouted to Chennai, as reported by Hindustan Times.

In response to the ongoing deluge, Bengaluru Urban Deputy Commissioner Jagadish G issued an order to close all schools and Anganwadi centres on Monday-a precautionary step aimed at keeping students and staff safe. This was the second time in a week that schools had to be shut due to the rains. The directive extended to other institutions like engineering, diploma, and ITI colleges, with an emphasis on inspecting building safety.

Commuters, meanwhile, faced another day of gridlock as key junctions like Silk Board became almost impassable due to the water stagnation. Social media buzzed with updates and images of submerged vehicles, especially from areas like Yelahanka and Sahakar Nagar, where conditions were particularly dire. Videos showed cars trapped in flooded underpasses, with Sahakar Nagar being among the worst hit.

The IMD had already issued an orange alert for both Bengaluru Urban and Rural districts, warning of more rain and thunderstorms. BBMP, Bengaluru's civic body, released advisories urging residents to stay indoors, close windows, and avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary.

Climate scientist Pradeep, known for monitoring Bengaluru's weather under the handle @Bengalururain, remarked on the rarity of morning thunderstorms in October, noting that parts of West Bengaluru had recorded over 60mm of rainfall. As of his last update, he observed a slight weakening of the storm activity, though the city's residents were clearly still grappling with the aftermath.