Weather Tomorrow: Heavy Rains Cause Flooding in Karnataka

Heavy rains in Dharwad and Mangaluru, Karnataka, have caused severe flooding, forcing residents to stay indoors and leaving properties damaged. The flooding has been particularly severe in low-lying areas, with choked drains and neglected gutters exacerbating the situation.

Residents expressed frustration with authorities for lack of preparedness and response, with many areas, including Old Dharwad, UAS, and areas around the KSRTC bus depot, being severely affected. The PB Road, which connects Hubballi and Dharwad, was also waterlogged, stranding dozens of new cars. Urban flooding experts pointed to unscientific urban planning and poor engineering skills as the root cause of the problem.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for the coastal region, warning of continued heavy rainfall. A bus broke down at a flooded stretch, and two- and three-wheelers were barred from a crucial stretch of National Highway-66 due to safety concerns. The IMD issued red alerts for Dakshina Kannada district over the past three days, with Friday's downpour being particularly intense.

In response to the heavy rainfall, Udupi district in Karnataka declared a holiday for all Anganwadi centers and primary and secondary schools on June 13. The order applies to government, aided, and private institutions, prioritizing student safety. However, pre-university colleges, degree colleges, and other higher education institutions will operate as usual.

As the weather tomorrow is expected to bring more heavy rainfall, residents are bracing for further flooding and damage. The authorities have launched a cleaning operation to clear clogged drains and gutters, but residents are still demanding more action to prevent such disasters in the future.