Bengaluru is forecasted to experience a wet and stormy weekend, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across the city and much of Karnataka. This weather pattern is attributed to a cyclonic circulation over the east-central Arabian Sea off the Karnataka coast, which is expected to develop into a low-pressure area by May 22 and intensify further as it moves northward.
On Saturday, May 17, Bengaluru is experiencing partly cloudy skies with a couple of showers and a thunderstorm anticipated in the afternoon. The maximum temperature is expected to reach around 30°C, with a minimum of 21°C. These conditions are part of the pre-monsoon activity that has been intensifying across the region.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Bengaluru and several other districts in Karnataka, warning of moderate to heavy thundershowers.
The ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium may be affected by the anticipated heavy rainfall. Weather forecasts suggest increasing chances of precipitation throughout the day, with the highest likelihood coinciding with the match scheduled for the evening.
Looking ahead, the city is expected to experience consistent spells of rain, with some days seeing heavy downpours. Isolated heavy rainfall is anticipated over South Interior Karnataka on May 18 and 19, while North Interior Karnataka could experience similar conditions on May 19 and 20. These rains will be accompanied by wind speeds reaching up to 50 km/h in some areas, potentially leading to waterlogging and minor flooding in low-lying regions.
Residents are advised to stay updated with local weather alerts and take necessary precautions, especially during thunderstorms. It is recommended to avoid sheltering under trees during lightning, secure loose objects, and ensure proper drainage to prevent urban flooding.
With the southwest monsoon advancing further into the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, these pre-monsoon showers are likely a sign to more sustained rainfall in the coming weeks. Bengaluru, known for its relatively moderate climate, seems set to welcome the wet season early this year.
