Coastal Karnataka Batters by Heavy Rains, Red Alert Issued
Several parts of the coastal districts of Karnataka have been experiencing substantial rainfall since Monday, September 24, 2024. The intensity of the rains has increased, bringing cooler weather to the region.
In Dakshina Kannada (DK), heavy rains lashed the region on Monday morning, followed by cloudy and humid weather. Intermittent downpours continued throughout the afternoon. Beltangady taluk saw moderate rains, while Puttur and Bellare experienced heavy showers. Bantwal had rains during the night. Mangaluru city and rural areas also received rainfall in the morning, which intensified by evening and night.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared a red alert for Tuesday in coastal districts, with more rainfall expected. A yellow alert has also been issued for Wednesday. Fishermen have been advised to stay cautious due to the possibility of strong winds.
House Collapse in Mangaluru Amidst Heavy Rainfall
The heavy rains have also led to several incidents of damage, including a house wall collapse in Mangaluru. The incident occurred on Monday morning, September 24, due to the continuous downpour that has been occurring since last night in the region. Waterlogging in many places also disturbs normal life.
The local administration is expected to assess the situation and provide assistance where necessary. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of injuries or casualties following the incident.
Udupi Also Faces Heavy Rains
In Udupi, heavy rains were reported in Karkala, Udupi city, Kundapur, and Hebri taluks. Rains also showered in most parts of the district on Sunday night. The IMD has issued a red alert for Udupi as well, with more rainfall expected in the coming hours.
Landslide Threatens Houses in Ullal
The relentless rainfall has also caused a landslide in the Ullal City Municipality area at Hale Kote. Soil has collapsed onto the compound wall of a house, putting two houses at risk of further collapse. As a precautionary measure, three families have been evacuated from the area and have moved to the homes of relatives. Ullal Municipality officials visited the site and deployed a JCB to clear the debris. There have been no casualties reported from the incident.
A Call for Caution
The heavy rains and strong winds are a cause for concern, and residents of coastal Karnataka are urged to take necessary precautions. Stay informed about weather updates, and avoid venturing out during heavy rain or strong winds. If you encounter any difficulties, contact the local authorities immediately.
The authorities are working to mitigate the impact of the heavy rains and provide assistance to those affected. However, the safety and well-being of residents remain paramount. It is crucial to stay vigilant and prepared during this period of heavy rainfall and potential hazards.
A Look Back at Recent Events: A Case of Déjà Vu
The current spell of heavy rains is not an isolated event. Coastal Karnataka has witnessed similar heavy rainfall patterns in the past, with the region often facing the brunt of monsoon rains. The recurring pattern underscores the vulnerability of the region to heavy rainfall and the need for preparedness and mitigation strategies.
A Call to Action: Building Resilience
The recent events highlight the need for effective disaster preparedness measures to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and other weather-related disasters. This includes investing in infrastructure, strengthening early warning systems, and promoting community-based disaster preparedness initiatives.
The Importance of Collaboration
The response to the current situation requires a collaborative effort between government agencies, local communities, and non-governmental organizations. Effective communication, coordination, and resource mobilization are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents during these challenging times.
