Severe Rain Disrupts Life in Coastal Karnataka

Heavy Rainfall Causes Chaos in Coastal Regions

Mangaluru (Karnataka), August 4 – Torrential rains on Tuesday wreaked havoc in coastal Karnataka, significantly disrupting daily life. The Kudampur taluk in Udupi district recorded the highest rainfall of 189 millimeters (mm) in the past 24 hours, according to reports.

Data released by the Karnataka State Disaster Monitoring Center indicates that the active southwest monsoon over the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats has led to heavy rainfall across the entire coastal region. In Dakshina Kannada district, significant rainfall was also noted, with Uppinangadi receiving 122.8 mm and Belthangady 100.8 mm. Other areas reported 76.2 mm in Dharmasthala, 74.4 mm in Moodbidri, 274 mm in Bantwal, and 23.6 mm in Mangaluru.

In Uttara Kannada district, the highest rainfall was recorded at Joida with 148.6 mm, followed by Jagalbet at 67 mm, Gerasoppa at 46.2 mm, and Kirawatti at 32.4 mm. The extensive rainfall in this coastal area has led to waterlogging in low-lying regions, severely affecting local communities. The Netravati River and its tributaries are nearing danger levels.

The India Meteorological Department has forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by winds at speeds of 30-40 kilometers per hour. District administrations in the coastal areas have placed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) units and local emergency response teams on high alert to address potential landslides and flooding in hilly regions. Fishermen have been advised to avoid venturing into the Arabian Sea due to adverse weather conditions.