IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Districts in Karnataka

Residents of Bangalore are advised to stay cautious as the Indian Meteorological Department or IMD has forecasted heavy rains to continue across the city. Several districts in Karnataka, including Bengaluru, are kept under ‘Yellow Alert’ based on heavy rainfall alerts. The details of the alerts are as follows: 

• IMD has marked districts of Bangalore Urban,Bangalore Rural, Chamarajanagar, Chikkamagaluru, Chikkaballapura, Kodagu, Mandya, Kolar, Mysore and Tumukuru districts of South Interior Karnataka as experiencing heavy downpours.
• These heavy rainfalls are expected to continue for the next three days, which might severely impact the normal way of life for the people. 
• The temperature updates as per IMD are for the days of downpours that might remain between 20 to 25°C. 

Potential Impact of Such Heavy Downpours 

• The heavy water logging in the said districts might lead to waterlogging, road blockages, and even reduced visibility for train operators and flights. 
• The most prominent impact that can be expected as a result of such downpours is frequent power outages and disruptions in transportation. 
• The people in the expected districts should make their arrangements accordingly and avoid going out unless needed. 
• Residents of the mentioned districts are also advised to store fresh drinking water previously in case water pumping stations and other pump generators get damaged due to rising water levels. 

Key Safety Measures for Societies and Apartments Residents 

• Regularly check the weather updates and stay updated with the recent reports or announcements from IMD. 
• Ensure that residents are well updated with the potential power outage times, if any, and stay out of the open areas. 
• Check your rooftops, balconies and other regions to ensure that there are minimal chances of waterlogging. 
• Prevent water seepage into the parking areas by using barriers like sandbags. 
• Check rainwater pipe blockages and clean the drains and sewer lines to remove water clogs. 

Backup Power 

• Due to frequent rains, there is a risk of power outage, as already mentioned. Keep your batteries and phones charged to meet dire needs during the rains. 
• Avoid using elevators, as you might get stuck if there is a power failure.
• Keep your gardens and common passages in societies free of light materials that can be blown over by wind and cause trouble. 

Parking and Vehicle Safety 

• Move vehicles to a higher ground to prevent flooding in the basement areas.
• Provide all residents with emergency contact numbers, lest they need something during the heavy downpours. 
• Do not move out on the streets as the stray power lines might shock you or could lead to potential loss of life. 

Always wear protective boots and carry a heavy-duty umbrella to keep yourself away from the rain. Be cautious about the risk of waterborne diseases and ensure clean drinking water is available. If there are thunderbolts at the same time, unplug all costly electronic appliances and install surge protectors to guard against power surges caused by lightning.

Source: India Meteorological Department

Conclusion 

Residents across Karnataka, especially in the districts under Yellow Alert, must prioritise safety during the forecasted heavy rains. By taking preventive measures and staying informed, societies and apartment residents can mitigate the risks and ensure community well-being.