After a somewhat subdued start to August, Bengaluru is preparing for a significant spell of heavy rainfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a “Yellow Alert” for parts of Karnataka, including South Interior Karnataka where the tech city is located. The intensified showers are expected to commence around August 6th and continue through the second week of the month, bringing much-needed relief to some regions while posing challenges like waterlogging and traffic disruptions in urban areas.
The Forecast: Bengaluru Set for a Soaking
While the current conditions in Bengaluru on Saturday, August 3rd, show light rain and generally cloudy skies (temperatures around 26°C with 75% humidity), the IMD’s extended forecast indicates a distinct shift towards heavier precipitation.
Here’s a breakdown of the expected weather in Bengaluru:
- Sunday, August 3: Light rain expected, particularly in the evening. High 29°C, Low 21°C.
- Monday, August 4: Continued light rain. High 30°C, Low 22°C.
- Tuesday, August 5: Rain likely, with a 70% chance of precipitation overnight. High 28°C, Low 22°C.
- Wednesday, August 6: While still cloudy with a 20% chance of rain, this day marks the transition before the intensity picks up. High 28°C, Low 22°C.
- Thursday, August 7: The forecast shifts dramatically to “heavy thunderstorm” with a 75% chance of rain during both day and night. High 28°C, Low 22°C.
- Friday, August 8: “Scattered thunderstorms” are predicted with a high chance of rain. High 28°C, Low 22°C.
- Saturday, August 9: Continued “scattered thunderstorms” and light rain. High 27°C, Low 22°C.
- Sunday, August 10: Another day of “heavy thunderstorm” activity, with a 65% chance of rain. High 27°C, Low 21°C.
This forecast clearly indicates that Bengaluru and surrounding areas should prepare for a significant increase in rainfall, particularly from August 7th onwards.
IMD’s Yellow Alert and Regional Impact:
The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for Coastal and North Interior Karnataka from August 5th to 8th, and specifically for South Interior Karnataka (which includes Bengaluru) with “Heavy to Very Heavy Rain” likely at isolated places from August 6th to 8th.
This alert signifies that weather conditions could be challenging and require residents to be updated and cautious. Other parts of Karnataka, particularly the coastal belt (Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Uttara Kannada) and parts of North Interior Karnataka, are also expected to receive heavy rainfall.
Monsoon Performance and Bengaluru’s Rainfall Pattern:
The Southwest Monsoon 2025 has been quite active across India. While the country as a whole has seen above-normal rainfall in the first half of the season (June-July), with a 6% surplus nationwide, some regions have experienced variations.
Bengaluru itself had a mixed July, with rainfall falling short of the monthly average (recorded 87 mm against a normal of 113 mm for July 1981–2010 average). However, the cumulative rainfall for the year at IMD Bengaluru still stands above normal, indicating that while recent spells might have been deficient, the overall annual tally remains healthy. August historically is one of the wetter months for Bengaluru, with an average rainfall of 117.8 mm and around 8.9 rainy days, based on historical data. The upcoming spell of heavy rain appears to align with the typical monsoon intensification for this month.
Potential Impacts and Advisory for Residents:
The impending heavy rainfall carries potential impacts, especially for a densely populated city like Bengaluru:
- Waterlogging: Low-lying areas and underpasses are highly susceptible to waterlogging, leading to traffic congestion and disruptions.
- Traffic Snarls: Commuters should anticipate significant delays on roads and consider using public transport where possible.
- Reduced Visibility: Heavy downpours can severely reduce visibility, making driving hazardous. Drivers are advised to use headlights and maintain safe distances.
- Drainage Issues: Older infrastructure and rapid urbanization often lead to drainage issues, exacerbating waterlogging.
- Power Disruptions: Heavy rains and strong winds can sometimes lead to localized power outages due to tree falls or line damage.
Recommendations for Residents:
- Stay Informed: Continuously check official weather updates from IMD and local civic authorities.
- Plan Travel: If possible, postpone non-essential travel during peak rainfall hours. If you must travel, allow for extra time.
- Commuter Safety: Avoid walking or driving through waterlogged areas. Be aware of open manholes.
- Emergency Preparedness: Keep an emergency kit ready with essentials like a flashlight, power bank, and basic first aid.
- Secure Homes: Ensure balconies are clear of loose items and drains are not clogged.
Bengaluru residents are urged to take necessary precautions and cooperate with authorities to ensure safety during this period of intense monsoon activity.
