Karnataka Weather Alert: IMD Issues Yellow Alert for 20+ Districts, Rain to Intensify Over Weekend

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bengaluru, has issued a nowcast weather alert valid for the next three hours starting from 7:00 PM IST. The alert warns of light to moderate rainfall accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph in several districts across Karnataka. Residents have been advised to stay indoors and follow safety protocols as inclement weather conditions could lead to temporary power outages and travel disruptions.

The weather warning covers a wide swathe of Karnataka including Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Bagalkot, Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Raichur, Ballari, Bangalore Urban, Bangalore Rural, Chamarajanagara, Chikkaballapura, Chikkamagaluru, Chitradurga, Davanagere, Hassan, Kolar, Mandya, Mysuru, Shivamogga, and Tumakuru.

The IMD has flagged potential impacts including power disruptions, minor traffic congestion, and the uprooting of weak tree branches due to sudden wind bursts. Commuters are advised to be cautious, especially in urban and semi-urban areas, where falling branches and waterlogging may cause temporary hazards.

The IMD has urged people in these districts to take immediate safety precautions. Residents should stay indoors, secure all doors and windows, and avoid seeking shelter under trees during lightning activity. Electrical and electronic appliances should be unplugged as a preventive measure. People are also advised to avoid water bodies and metal objects during the alert period. If driving is necessary, extreme caution is recommended due to reduced visibility and slippery roads.

Looking ahead, the weather is expected to intensify further. On August 9, coastal districts such as Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada are likely to see light to moderate rainfall at most locations. In North Interior Karnataka, including regions like Bagalkot, Belagavi, Bidar, Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Kalaburagi, Koppal, Raichur, Vijayapura, and Yadgir, rain and isolated thunderstorms are forecast. South Interior Karnataka, covering Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Ballari, Shivamogga, Mandya, and others, will also experience scattered showers and thundershowers.

The rainfall pattern is expected to continue on August 10, with most areas in both coastal and interior Karnataka predicted to receive light to moderate rain.