Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi

Udupi, Jul 6: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Udupi district for July 7 and July 8, warning of extremely heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds. The torrential downpour raises serious concerns over flooding, landslides, and disruption to normal life across the region.

According to the latest weather forecast issued on July 6, Udupi, along with neighboring coastal districts Dakshina Kannada and Uttara Kannada, is expected to receive extremely heavy to very heavy rainfall. These areas are also likely to experience thunderstorms, lightning, and sustained gusty winds reaching speeds of 50–60 kmph during the alert period. While the intensity of the downpour is expected to reduce after July 8, heavy rain with gusty winds is likely to persist across Udupi until at least July 12.

Statewide forecast and high alerts

The alert comes amidst an IMD forecast predicting widespread rainfall across Karnataka over the next five days, with heavy showers likely to continue until July 11. Light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is expected at several places across the state.

Apart from the coastal belt, the Malnad and south interior districts are also on high alert. Heavy rainfall is predicted for Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu, Hassan, and Belagavi districts, while several other districts in the south interior and north interior regions are expected to witness moderate to heavy showers. The IMD has issued Yellow, Orange, and Red alerts for various districts depending on the severity.

Safety advisories and administrative preparedness

Authorities have warned that continuous rainfall could lead to waterlogging in urban areas, flash floods in low-lying regions, and landslides in hilly sectors, alongside disruptions to road traffic.

The district administration and the IMD have issued strict advisories for the public:

• Fishermen: Strongly advised not to venture into the Arabian Sea off the Karnataka coast due to rough sea conditions and strong winds.

• Tourists and commuters: Cautioned against visiting beaches, rivers, low-lying regions, and landslide-prone areas. Unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall should be avoided.

The State Disaster Management Authority and district administrations have been directed to initiate all necessary precautionary measures. Emergency response teams and rescue personnel have been kept on high alert in vulnerable areas to handle any rain-related emergencies swiftly.