Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Apr 25: Several parts of Karnataka have received light summer showers, bringing temporary relief from the heat. However, for further summer rainfall, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has stated that a significant increase in atmospheric moisture is necessary. As of now, there are no signs of low pressure formation or cyclonic activity.
According to the IMD, summer rain is likely only when the Relative Humidity (RH) crosses 70%. Currently, due to earlier rainfall, RH levels have reached around 40%. Rain is typically unlikely when humidity stays between 40% and 70%. Only when this threshold is crossed can rainfall be expected.
In Bengaluru, rainfall can occur once RH surpasses 50%. While the coastal region is categorized as a plain area, IMD officials consider Bengaluru similar to a hill station in terms of atmospheric behaviour.
"Summer showers may continue for a few more days. Coastal, Malnad, and most other parts of the state may receive rainfall over the next four to five days. If the Indian Ocean does not experience any low-pressure or cyclonic activity, this year’s monsoon might even arrive earlier than usual," said weather expert Sai Shekhar.
Temperatures are expected to rise further. Regions that recorded 30°C to 34°C may soon experience 38°C to 40°C. As heat increases, so does the atmospheric moisture, creating favourable conditions for further summer rainfall. IMD senior scientist Prasad A D noted that interior and southern interior Karnataka may see a 2°C to 3°C rise in temperature.
In the coastal districts, rural areas such as Sullia, Subrahmanya, and Kadaba witnessed moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning during the evenings. Meanwhile, urban areas experienced a few heavy showers followed by intense sunshine. City regions are currently seeing more sunlight despite a cloudy atmosphere, while the rural belts enjoy a more balanced and pleasant climate due to the mix of sun and rain.
Over the past two days, several parts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts have seen sudden early morning mist (locally referred to as ‘forest smoke’). Areas that received heavy rainfall previously, followed by sunshine, are experiencing foggy conditions the next morning due to rising moisture levels. This mist is not winter fog but a result of specific conditions, which may also raise both temperature and humidity, according to IMD scientists.