Pics: Spoorthi Ullal/Jeevan D'Costa

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi (MS)

Mangaluru/Udupi, Jan 4: Dakshina Kannada (DK) and Udupi district witnessed substantial rainfall on Wednesday, attributed to a low-pressure system in the Arabian Sea. The downpour continued into Thursday, bringing relief from the sweltering heat.

Heavy rains occurred in the district from the midnight of Tuesday until the early hours of Wednesday. Throughout the day, light rain and cloudy weather prevailed in most parts of the district.

The low-pressure system at sea level led to the formation of a whirlwind at approximately 5.8 km above sea level, causing the widespread rainfall. Bantwal and Beltangady taluks experienced particularly heavy rains, while other areas received either light sprinkles or moderate rainfall. Rural areas faced electricity cuts due to the inclement weather.

Mangaluru

Udupi

Subramanya Bhat, a farmer from Sajipamunnoor, expressed concerns about the sudden rain adversely affecting agriculture. “Arecanut, left in yards for drying after harvesting, got wet due to the unexpected rain. Wet arecanut is graded lower in the market compared to the usual first-quality produce. Additionally, water accumulation on pepper branches, which may lead to boiling under sunshine, can reduce yields,” he said. Despite these concerns, meteorological department officer Prasad stated that this rainfall is not untimely but rather usual.

A yellow alert has been issued for the coastal region on January 4. Moderate rains are anticipated in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Uttara Kannada, and Kodagu districts. Weather experts predict a significant reduction in both high and low temperatures due to the rainfall.