Meteorological dept forecasts pre-monsoon rains in coastal Karnataka within a week

Meteorological dept forecasts pre-monsoon rains in coastal Karnataka within a week

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, March 21, 2024: As per the meteorological department’s latest report, temperatures are climbing, and there’s a likelihood of pre-monsoon showers hitting the coastal region within a week.

Traditionally, the coastal area witnesses rainfall by the second week of March annually. However, due to fluctuations in global temperatures, this pattern has been disrupted in recent years. Last year, owing to unusually mild winter temperatures, the region experienced above-average temperatures. Mangaluru has been consistently recording temperatures surpassing 36 degrees Celsius for several consecutive days.

The intense heat has spurred cloud formation in the sky, hinting at potential rainfall in the coastal region in the upcoming week. Typically, by this time of the year, the coastal areas should have received approximately 4 mm of rainfall. However, so far, there hasn’t been any precipitation in the region. Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada usually receive 7 mm, 3 mm, and 1 mm of rain respectively by now.

In 2023, the coastal region encountered a notable deficit in pre-monsoon rains. Dakshina Kannada received only 119.4 mm of rain, a 51% deviation from the usual amount. Similarly, Udupi received 151.04 mm of rain, also 51% below the norm, while Uttara Kannada received merely 63 mm of rain, representing a 62% deficit. Overall, the coastal region of Karnataka witnessed a 61% shortfall in pre-monsoon rainfall last year.

Dr. Raje Gowda, a respected weather scientist, commented, "In recent days, we’ve observed a rise in maximum temperatures in the coastal Karnataka region. There’s a chance of cloud formation and scattered showers in some areas, potentially alleviating the heat. Based on current conditions, it’s anticipated that pre-monsoon rains will occur as per usual this year."