Hail pelts Bengaluru, north Karnataka; IMD forecasts more storms

BENGALURU: Unseasonal rain accompanied by hailstorms swept across several parts of Karnataka, including north Bengaluru, Tuesday, bringing much-needed relief from scorching heat but also disrupting daily life.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) scientists issued a forecast of thundershowers at isolated places in districts along with strong, gusty winds at a speed of 30-40 kmph till the weekend.

CS Patil, scientist at IMD, Bengaluru, attributed the hailstorm to multiple factors. "There is a north-south trough extending over interiors of Karnataka besides discontinuity of winds. This apart, all districts have reported scorching heat over the past few days, resulting in intense hailstorms at isolated places of north and south-interior Karnataka districts.

In Bengaluru, parts of Sanjaynagar and Hebbal saw hailstorms in the evening. Sanjaynagar resident Madukar Raj told TOI, "I have seen hailstorms in the city before, but these were big ice cubes. We had hailstorms for close to 10 minutes and then good rain. I ran out just to see the cubes. It was nice to watch, though people travelling should take care."

Light-to-moderate showers lashed parts of RT Nagar, Hebbal, Nagawara and Kammanahalli at night. IMD officials said there's possibility of intense thunderstorms between Doddaballapur and Chikkaballapur areas, including Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) as well.

Despite the thundershowers, IMD officials said maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to hover around 33°C and 21°C, respectively in Bengaluru.

GBA helpline

Greater Bengaluru Authority issued a rain advisory following forecast of light-to-moderate showers across the city. The disaster management team urged residents to avoid travelling during heavy spells of rain, stay away from electric poles and trees due to safety risks, and avoid waterlogged underpasses. Citizens can reach out through GBA helpline (1533) or WhatsApp number (94806 85700) in case of emergencies.

Dharwad turns white with 4-5 inches of hail

Parts of Dharwad and Raichur literally transformed into an all-white landscape after 4-5 inches of hail accumulated on roads and agricultural fields. Youngsters in Kalaghatagi, Dharwad, were seen rejoicing on streets. But traffic went haywire, with several buses and two-wheelers stopping midway due to the slippery surface.

Hassan city reported heavy hailstorms and subsequently waterlogging and flooding of drains. Tragedy struck in Koppal district when 15-year-old Manjunath died after being struck by lightning while working at a field in Yelburga taluk.

IMD authorities directed all districts to remain alert as hailstorms, lightning and strong winds could pose risks.