Rains would affect normal life

The India Meteorological Department has issued fresh forecasts indicating that monsoon rains will intensify across most parts of Karnataka starting Saturday, June 8. After a brief lull, Bengaluru and surrounding districts are likely to experience renewed heavy rainfall activity over the coming days. The weather office has particularly emphasized that northern regions of the state should prepare for significant precipitation.

Authorities have declared a yellow alert for eleven districts in North Karnataka, including Belagavi, Dharwad, Haveri, Gadag, Koppal, Bagalkot, Vijayapura, Raichur, Yadgir, Kalaburagi and Bidar. These areas are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next 48 hours. Along the Krishna river basin, officials have issued flood warnings to riverside communities as water releases from reservoirs may become necessary if rains persist. The alerts come even as farmers in Davanagere district have taken advantage of the recent dry spell to accelerate sowing operations.

The state capital Bengaluru, which saw some respite from continuous rains over the past two days, is likely to experience heavy showers again starting Saturday. Weather models predict precipitation levels 150-200% above normal for June 8-9, followed by moderate rainfall from June 10-12. Urban authorities have put emergency response teams on standby to handle potential waterlogging and flash flood situations in low-lying areas of the city.

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With several major dams in the Krishna basin nearing capacity, controlled water releases may be implemented in coming days. The Public Works Department has advised residents along riverbanks to remain vigilant. Transportation officials have issued travel advisories for the Bengaluru-Pune national highway (NH-48) where landslide risks have increased. Agricultural experts are recommending farmers in alert zones to delay harvest activities until weather conditions stabilize. All district administrations have activated emergency response numbers and relief centers remain on standby throughout the state.

Current monsoon statistics show Karnataka has already received 118% more rainfall this June compared to the same period last year, with Gadag district recording the highest deviation at 203% above normal levels. Weather scientists attribute this intense precipitation pattern to the combined effect of multiple weather systems over the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. The Meteorological Department will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates every six hours as the monsoon regains strength over the region.