Karnataka Braces for Widespread Rain as Low Pressure Forms Over Bay of Bengal

The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) has forecast increased rainfall across several districts over the coming days, driven by a drop in atmospheric pressure over the Bay of Bengal amid a period of weak monsoon activity. Moderate rain is expected in districts including Bengaluru Urban and Rural, Mysuru, Hassan, Shivamogga, Tumakuru, Kodagu, and Chikkamagaluru. Thunderstorms are likely in Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, and Haveri districts on June 20 and 21, while Raichur and Vijayapur have been issued specific rain warnings.

The coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada are expected to experience moderate rainfall over the next seven days. Urban temperatures are forecast to remain relatively stable, with Bengaluru recording a maximum of 29°C and a minimum of 21°C. In the hill station of Madikeri, day temperatures will reach 25°C with a minimum of 21°C. Other major cities show similar seasonal patterns: Shivamogga (31-23°C), Mangaluru (30-26°C), and Kalaburagi (37-27°C).

The weather department attributes the impending wet spell to a cyclonic circulation that has developed over the Bay of Bengal, which is drawing moisture into the state and compensating for the earlier monsoon deficiency. Residents in thunderstorm-prone areas have been advised to take precautions. The predictions cover a broad geographical swath from the coastal regions to the interior northern districts, with central districts such as Tumakuru and Chikkaballapur expected to receive moderate rainfall as well.

Overall, the outlook suggests a significant uptick in precipitation across Karnataka over the next few days, providing relief from the subdued monsoon conditions. The department continues to monitor the situation and update forecasts as the low-pressure system evolves.