Bengaluru, parts of Karnataka brace for rain, thunderstorms; IMD issues yellow alert

Bengaluru rain

After a short lull in the pre-monsoon spell, Karnataka is once again set to receive light to moderate showers, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for several regions across the state until May 16. The advisory includes warnings of isolated spells of heavy rainfall, particularly in southern parts, including Bengaluru.

According to a report by The Indian Express, the IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across interior Karnataka in the coming days. While southern interior Karnataka is likely to witness isolated heavy rainfall between 12 and 16 May, the northern regions are expected to experience similar conditions, though limited to 13 and 14 May.

#Nowcast # #:@dcuttarakannada @dcudupi @DCDKOfficial @DCBallari @ChitradurgaDeo @dcdavanagere pic.twitter.com/hPnmq2O6E9
Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (@KarnatakaSNDMC) May 13, 2025

In a nowcast warning issued earlier today, the Bengaluru IMD predicted light to moderate rain and thunderstorms across multiple districts, including the state capital. Gusty winds, with speeds ranging between 30 and 40 km/h, are expected to sweep across Bengaluru. The city is also likely to see cloudy skies and intermittent showers, especially by late morning or afternoon.

This shift in weather, consistent with pre-monsoon behaviour, has brought momentary relief from the rising temperatures that had gripped the city in recent weeks. The seven-day forecast suggests continued cloud cover and scattered rainfall, particularly during the evening hours.

Districts such as Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Ballary, Chitradurga and Davangere have also been flagged for potential rainfall accompanied by lightning and strong winds, according to the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre.

The IMD has urged residents to take necessary precautions. Temporary power outages, traffic disruptions and the risk of falling tree branches are among the possible impacts. People have been advised to stay indoors during lightning, avoid sheltering under trees, unplug electrical appliances and drive with caution during heavy rain.

Bengaluru’s roads, often susceptible to waterlogging and slow-moving traffic during rain, may see minor disruptions. Commuters are advised to plan their travel accordingly and stay updated through local weather bulletins.