Heavy rain predicted in Karnataka’s coastal areas, authorities take precautions

The centre, in an official statement, stated that the coastal districts are expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall (64.5 mm to 115 mm), with isolated places receiving very heavy rains (up to 244.4 mm) during the period, according to a report published by the news agency PTI. 

It added that thunderstorms with lightning are also likely to occur at isolated places over all the coastal districts of Karnataka, and heavy rainfall may coincide with high tide which will result in waterlogging and flooding of low-lying areas. 

Authorities have also been asked to deploy de-watering pumps and other equipment in such areas in advance to handle the situation if needed. In addition, the monitoring centre also asked the administrations to station National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and state DRF personnel in vulnerable areas to be at ready to prevent any mishaps. 

Over the last few days, the coastal districts have been receiving good rainfall. The meteorological department has asked fishermen not to venture into the sea as it predicts squally weather with wind speed reaching 45 kmph gusting to 55 kmph along the Karnataka coast till July 2, PTI reported. 

Meanwhile, the weather office on Thursday said that the southwest monsoon will likely cover the whole country in the next two days.

“Active monsoon conditions likely to continue over central and adjoining northwest India during next two days and along west coast over the next three days,” IMD said in its latest bulletin.

After cyclone Biparjay weakened into a low-pressure area, the monsoon current gathered pace advancing rapidly across the country and bringing rains. This has helped reduce all-India rain deficit to 16% from 33% last week.

The weather office does not see any significant change in maximum temperatures in the next 24 hours and a rise of 2-4 degree Celsius, thereafter. No significant change in maximum temperatures is likely over the rest of the country till Monday, IMD said.

Updated: 29 Jun 2023, 02:51 PM IST