Karnataka on High Alert: Heavy Rainfall Expected Across the State, Bengaluru Included
Karnataka, including its capital city Bengaluru, is on high alert as weather authorities forecast moderate to heavy rainfall across several regions for the coming week. The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) have issued advisories, urging residents to prepare for potential disruptions. This wet spell, driven by cyclonic systems, is a significant event for a state that has seen above-average rainfall in recent Octobers.
Widespread Rain and Regional Warnings
According to KSNDMC’s seven-day advisory, scattered light to moderate rain, often accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds, is expected across Karnataka until at least October 12, 2025. Coastal districts, the Malnad region, and southern interior parts of the state are particularly prone to heavy downpours between October 8 and October 12. Dakshina Kannada has also received a Yellow Alert due to persistent heat.
The IMD has also released district-wise forecasts, predicting rainfall trends for the next five days, reinforcing the warnings for the state.
Bengaluru’s Wet Outlook
Bengaluru, in particular, is set to experience a significant wet spell. Skymet Weather has highlighted that October is historically Bengaluru’s second wettest month, with rainfall intensity expected to increase in the coming days.
Forecasts indicate that Bengaluru could receive up to 100 mm of rainfall between October 8 and October 12. On October 8, the city woke up to a mild morning with scattered rainfall, and temperatures ranging between 22°C and 29°C. The city received 4.88 mm of rainfall on this day, with a 92% chance of continued showers.
The week-long outlook for Bengaluru suggests:
- October 9: Increased rainfall of 18.49 mm with temperatures dropping to 20.3°C.
- October 10: Scattered showers of 7.75 mm and cooler conditions.
- October 11: Reduced but continued rainfall.
- October 12–13: Drier weather with sunshine returning, and temperatures rising to 27.7°C, with October 13 expected to be rain-free.
Impact and Advisory for Residents
The heavy rainfall is attributed to a cyclonic circulation over the southwest Bay of Bengal near Tamil Nadu and a trough extending from coastal Andhra Pradesh to south interior Karnataka. A new cyclonic system forming over the north Bay of Bengal on October 8 could further enhance rainfall.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant, avoid low-lying and flood-prone areas, and follow local advisories. The rain is expected to cause temporary disruptions to electricity, minor traffic snarls, and the uprooting of weak tree branches. Authorities recommend staying indoors, closing windows and doors during heavy downpours, and carrying umbrellas or raincoats when venturing outdoors.
Despite the rain, Bengaluru’s air quality has been moderate, with an AQI of 81 on October 8. The rain may help improve air quality by reducing particulate matter in the atmosphere.
With intermittent heavy showers, strong winds, and occasional thunderstorms expected, the coming week will require caution and preparedness from residents across Karnataka.