Karavali: Heavy rain brings respite from heat, but leaves a trail of destruction

Team Udayavani, May 13, 2024, 8:48 AM IST

The rain and thunderstorms lashed parts of the coastal regions of Karnataka on Sunday, particularly impacting areas such as D.K., Udupi, and Kasaragod. Reports indicate extensive damage to trees, plantations, and infrastructure due to the relentless rain and strong winds.

In Dakshina Kannada district, the downpour intensified on Sunday evening, accompanied by thunder and lightning. Numerous areas including Sullia, Belthangadi, and Puttur experienced heavy rainfall, with some locations even witnessing hailstorms.

The inclement weather has left a trail of destruction in its wake. Agricultural fields near Kadirudyavara in Belthangadi taluk suffered significant damage, while houses in villages like Veerakamba and Punacha faced structural harm from fallen trees. Additionally, the roof of a school building in Vitla Patnur village was damaged by the force of the wind.

In Udupi district, moderate to heavy rains were reported, affecting areas such as Karkala, Kaup, and Hebri. Despite intermittent sunshine, drizzles persisted in several parts, including Udupi and Malpe.

The adverse conditions led to incidents of traffic disruption and property damage. In Aranthodu, a massive tree fell onto Mani Mysuru Road, obstructing traffic flow until authorities intervened. Similarly, in Kadaba, wind and rain caused a tree to fall on the Mardhala-Konaje link road, damaging vehicles and disrupting power supply.

Wind, thunder, and hailstorms occurred in different parts of the Puttur taluk. It rained well for about half an hour. Some houses were damaged in the city.

The agricultural sector bore the brunt of the weather’s fury, with papaya plantations destroyed in Belthangadi taluk and arecanut plantations suffering damage across Ilantila. Mescom, the local power utility, incurred losses due to broken electric poles and infrastructure damage.

Weather forecast

Forecasters predict continued rainfall in the coastal region for the next four days, urging residents to exercise caution. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a “Yellow Alert,” warning of thunderstorms and lightning during this period.

Car overturns near Kalladka

A car lost control and overturned amidst the first rain of the season on Sunday evening on the BC Road – Addahole Highway near Kudrebettu, close to Kalladka.

Tata Nano veered off course, colliding with the divider in the center of the highway before overturning. Fortunately, the sole occupant of the vehicle, identified as Tauseef, emerged from the incident unscathed.