Daijiworld Media Network – Karkala

Karkala, May 11: Heavy pre-monsoon showers accompanied by gusty winds and lightning have wreaked havoc across Karkala taluk over the past two days, causing extensive destruction to horticultural crops and residential properties.

Massive blow to agriculture

More than 10 cases of severe agricultural damage have been reported so far, with the overall loss to horticultural crops estimated to exceed Rs 5 lac. Bola village bore the brunt of the extreme weather conditions.

In Bola, one farmer suffered massive destruction to his plantation, with losses estimated at over Rs 1 lac. Two other agriculturists in the same village reported heavy damages as trees, plants, and vines were completely uprooted, incurring losses of over Rs 50,000 each. Furthermore, four other farm owners in the village suffered crop losses estimated at Rs 40,000 each, while three farmers from Bola and Mudradi villages reported damages amounting to Rs 20,000 each.

Lightning strikes and damaged houses

Lightning strikes on Friday and Saturday further exacerbated the situation. Two houses, one each in Kalya and Kukkundoor villages, were struck by lightning, resulting in massive damage.

Additionally, strong winds and rain partially damaged over 20 houses across Nandalike, Mundkur, Bola, Kukkundoor, and Belman. Bola village was the worst hit, where the roofs and structures of several houses were damaged. Total property losses due to house damage in Bola village alone are estimated to be over Rs 2 lac.

Overall rainfall remains deficit

Despite the severe localized damage caused by the squalls, the overall pre-monsoon rainfall in Udupi district remains below expected levels. In the 24 hours leading up to Monday morning, the district recorded an average rainfall of just 2.4 mm. Karkala recorded the highest rainfall at 8.4 mm, followed by Kaup with 2.9 mm, Brahmavar with 1.7 mm, and Udupi with 1.2 mm.