Bhatkal: Several areas of Uttara Kannada, including Kumta, Joida, Mundgod, Sirsi, Yellapur, and Dandeli, along with neighboring districts of Udupi and Dakshina Kannada, witnessed unseasonal rain on Tuesday and Wednesday. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted further rainfall in multiple areas today (Thursday). However, Bhatkal continues to experience intense heat, leaving residents distressed. The IMD has also forecasted that various parts of Karnataka may receive rainfall over the next two days, after which dry weather is expected to prevail.
For the past three days, Bhatkal has remained under cloudy skies, raising hopes for evening showers, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. However, despite continuous rainfall in neighboring regions, not a single drop has fallen in Bhatkal.
IMD Forecast
According to the IMD, light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is expected on March 27 in Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan, Kodagu, and Shivamogga districts. On March 28, rainfall is likely in some parts of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan, and Kodagu. After that, dry weather is expected across the state. Rising temperatures in South Karnataka may further intensify the heat.
Rainfall Recorded in Various Districts
On Tuesday and Wednesday, several parts of Karnataka received rainfall. Notable amounts were recorded in Belagavi’s Sankeshwar (4 cm), Gadag’s Shirahatti, Mysuru’s KR Nagar, and Uttara Kannada’s Castle Rock (3 cm). Rainfall was also recorded in Hosanagar (Shivamogga), Joida (Uttara Kannada) with 2 cm, and Karkala (Udupi) and Dharwad with 1 cm.
Heaviest Rainfall in Kodur, Shivamogga
Shivamogga district saw intense rainfall over the past two days, providing some relief from the scorching heat. On Wednesday, Kodur in Hosanagar taluk recorded the highest rainfall of 82 mm. Strong winds and heavy rain caused damage in several areas, toppling electric poles and resulting in losses worth lakhs of rupees. According to the electricity department, around 80 poles were knocked down, and two transformers were damaged, disrupting power supply in the region.
Heavy Rains in Belagavi
Belagavi city and several taluks, including Chikkodi, Nippani, Kittur, Bailhongal, and Savadatti, witnessed heavy downpours on Wednesday. Thunderstorms and strong winds uprooted trees and knocked down power lines. Chikkodi and Nippani experienced torrential rain during the day, while Kittur, Bailhongal, and Savadatti received rainfall accompanied by lightning and thunderstorms.
Damage to Crops
The stormy weather on Tuesday night affected several areas, including Yaragatti, Yamakanamaradi, and Sankeshwar, where strong winds damaged banana and papaya plantations. Power supply was also disrupted in multiple locations.
The IMD has advised residents to take necessary precautions over the next two days and stay in safe locations during adverse weather conditions.