IMD Issues Red Alert: 2 Intense Weather Systems Trigger Heavy Rainfall in Bengaluru and Parts of Karnataka

IMD issues a red alert for Bengaluru and parts of Karnataka as two powerful weather systems trigger heavy rainfall. Get the latest updates, impact zones, and safety warnings

s the southwest monsoon gathers momentum, Bengaluru and much of Karnataka are set to experience a rain-soaked week. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday issued a slew of weather alerts, with a red alert for parts of the coastal belt and orange and yellow alerts for other regions, including Bengaluru Urban.

The IMD has predicted continued rain and gusty winds across Karnataka for the next four days. Residents in coastal and interior districts have been advised to remain cautious, especially in areas under red and orange alerts. Wind speeds are expected to reach up to 50 kmph in some parts.

The red alert, indicating extremely heavy rainfall, has been issued for Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu and Shivamogga.

An orange alert, warning of very heavy rainfall, is in place for Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Chamarajanagar, Davanagere, Hassan and Mysuru.

Meanwhile, a yellow alert, suggesting heavy rainfall, covers Mandya, Koppal, Kalaburagi and Bidar districts.

A senior scientist at IMD Bengaluru explained that two weather systems are fuelling the widespread rainfall, as per TOI report. “The widely distributed rainfall across Karnataka is attributed to two prevailing weather conditions, an upper air cyclonic circulation over Marathwada and a trough extending up to coastal Andhra Pradesh across Telangana,” the scientist said.

Additionally, a former cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal has merged with another near south Bangladesh, intensifying rainfall activity across the state.

The forecast for Bengaluru over the next seven days promises consistent rain, with temperatures hovering around 29–30 degrees Celsius during the day and 20 degrees Celsius at night. Humidity will also remain on the higher side, adding to the monsoon feel.

June 17 to June 19: Generally cloudy skies with light rain; no weather warnings have been issued.
June 20 to June 22: Showers expected to intensify with rain forecast every day.

Although no warnings are currently in place for Bengaluru city, residents are advised to keep rain gear handy and remain cautious on waterlogged roads.

As the monsoon settles in, Karnataka’s weather is set to remain wet and windy—offering relief from the heat but also demanding preparedness from citizens and authorities alike.

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Bengaluru and several districts in Karnataka due to the convergence of two powerful weather systems. This development has led to intense rainfall, strong winds, and significant disruptions across the state.

The current weather disturbances are attributed to:

Upper Air Cyclonic Circulation: Located over north coastal Andhra Pradesh and adjoining south Odisha, this system is drawing moisture into the region.
Trough Extending to Coastal Karnataka: This atmospheric feature is enhancing the convergence of moist air, leading to increased cloud formation and precipitation.

Together, these systems have intensified the southwest monsoon over Karnataka, resulting in heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in various districts.

The IMD has issued the following alerts:

Red Alert: For 14 coastal and Western Ghats districts, indicating extremely heavy rainfall.
Orange Alert: For central and north interior Karnataka, signaling very heavy rainfall.
Yellow Alert: For south interior districts, including Bengaluru, warning of moderate rainfall and the possibility of strong winds.

These conditions are expected to persist for the next four days, with the IMD advising residents to remain vigilant and prepared.

Bengaluru, known for its pleasant climate, is experiencing unusual weather patterns. The city’s infrastructure, including roads and drainage systems, is facing challenges due to the sudden onset of heavy rains.

Flooded Roads: Several arterial roads have been inundated, leading to traffic snarls and delays.
Flight Disruptions: The Kempegowda International Airport has reported delays and diversions due to low visibility and adverse weather conditions.
Power Outages: Localized power cuts have been reported in various parts of the city, affecting daily life.
School Closures: In some areas, educational institutions have been closed as a precautionary measure.

Residents are advised to stay indoors during heavy rainfall, avoid travel unless necessary, and ensure that drainage systems around their homes are clear to prevent waterlogging.

Beyond Bengaluru, the heavy rainfall is impacting other parts of Karnataka:

Coastal Regions: Areas like Mangaluru and Udupi are experiencing strong winds and heavy showers, leading to potential coastal erosion and disruptions in fishing activities.
Western Ghats: Districts such as Kodagu and Chikkamagaluru are at risk of landslides due to the saturated soil conditions.
Interior Districts: While receiving less rainfall, regions like Tumakuru and Hassan are experiencing gusty winds and occasional thunderstorms.

The IMD has urged authorities in these districts to remain on high alert and take necessary precautions to mitigate potential hazards.

In light of the ongoing weather conditions, the IMD and local authorities recommend the following safety measures:

Stay Informed: Regularly check weather updates from official sources.
Avoid Water Bodies: Do not venture near rivers, lakes, or ponds during heavy rains.
Secure Loose Objects: Ensure that outdoor furniture and other items are secured to prevent them from being blown away.
Travel Precautions: If travel is essential, ensure that vehicles are equipped with necessary safety gear and that routes are clear.
Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and a flashlight.

Authorities are also advising against unnecessary travel during peak rainfall hours and are coordinating with disaster management teams to address any emergencies promptly.

The convergence of these weather systems is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of monsoon patterns. While the IMD has issued alerts, the dynamic nature of atmospheric conditions means that forecasts can change rapidly.

IMD Issues Red Alert: 2 Intense Weather Systems Trigger Heavy Rainfall in Bengaluru and Parts of Karnataka