Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Apr 24: Compared to last year, particularly in the past three months, Dakshina Kannada (DK) district has experienced significantly more rainfall. Instead of the usual 28 mm, the district received 62 mm, indicating a 118% increase in rainfall. Last year, the district faced a deficit of about 94 mm of rainfall. While there was some rainfall in January this year, February and March saw only light showers.

In 2022, during the same period, the district received only 96 mm of rainfall instead of the usual 99 mm. In 2023, it received a mere 0.9 mm instead of the expected 15.3 mm. However, this year's increased rainfall has resolved the issue.

The arrival of summer rain, which was absent last year, is a positive development. Light rain has been observed in some parts of DK in March, and rain is expected in April as well. This not only cools the environment but also provides water for drinking purposes.

Senior weather scientist A D Prasad predicts that all parts of Karnataka will experience rain accompanied by thunder and lightning this year. Local clouds form due to extreme temperatures, leading to rainfall, and the amount of rain is expected to increase with rising temperatures.

According to officials from the Dakshina Kannada district disaster management authority, unlike last year, the district has not faced any rainfall deficit this year. In 2022, flooding occurred during summer rains, attributed to two to three cyclones. However, the situation was not favourable in 2023. This year, more pre-monsoon rains are anticipated.