Bhatkal: Heavy rain has been persisting for two days across coastal Karnataka, including Bhatkal, with the Meteorological Department forecasting more heavy rain for the next five days. A red alert has been issued for the coastal districts of Uttara Kannada and Udupi for the next 24 hours, effective Sunday.

The monsoon arrived in Karnataka on schedule on June 7 this year, but the heavy rains have disrupted normal life in many areas.

An orange alert has been issued for the north interior districts of Karnataka, including Belgaum, Dharwad, Gadag, Bagalkot, Koppal, Raichur, Vijaypur, and Chickballapur. The alert also extends to another coastal district, Dakshina Kannada. Additionally, a yellow alert has been declared for Chitradurga, Davangere, and Shimoga districts, according to the Meteorological Department.

The department further indicated that on June 9, Dakshina Kannada district will experience heavy rains with thunderstorms. Similar conditions are expected in Belagavi, Gadag, Dharwad, and Haveri districts. Bagalkot, Koppal, Raichur, and Vijaypur districts are anticipated to receive winds with speeds of 40 to 50 kmph along with thundershowers.

Warning to Fishermen: Coastal districts are expected to experience gusty winds of up to 45 kmph to 55 kmph. Consequently, fishermen in these coastal areas have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea.