Chikkamagaluru
Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds and hailstorms lashed several parts of Chikkamagaluru district, severely disrupting normal life across the coffee-growing region.
The intense weather activity was reported in multiple areas including Kottigehara, Mudigere, Kalasa, Sringeri, Koppa, Balehonnur, NR Pura, Aldur, and surrounding villages. In several locations, uprooted trees and fallen electric poles blocked roads and caused widespread power outages, leaving many villages in darkness for hours.
Traffic on key routes, including the road connecting Sringeri, was temporarily halted after trees fell near Bannur village. Local residents and authorities worked together to clear debris and restore movement. The Koodremukh stretch also witnessed disruption after a large tree collapsed onto the roadway.
In Kalasa taluk, strong winds damaged houses, with reports of roofs and sheets being blown away. Coffee growers in the region expressed concern as hailstorm activity is expected to affect standing crops, adding to agricultural losses in the region.
In a tragic incident, a 65-year-old woman, Subbamma, from Kadidalu village in Mudigere taluk, died after falling into the Hemavati river while reportedly collecting greens. She had gone out to gather leafy vegetables and did not return home, prompting a search by family members. Her body was later recovered from the river with the help of locals and social workers. Police have registered a case and shifted the body for post-mortem examination.
Authorities stated that restoration work is underway to clear roads and repair damaged power infrastructure, while residents have been advised to remain cautious due to continuing adverse weather conditions in the region.