Thick dark clouds hover over Tagore Beach in Karwar on Monday.
Credit: DH Photo/ Ganapathi Hegde
Karwar: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread pre-monsoon rainfall across the district and issued an orange alert for Tuesday, followed by a red alert until May 21, in anticipation of heavy rain and strong winds.
According to the IMD, the coastal regions are likely to experience rainfall accompanied by strong winds until May 25. Wind speeds are expected to average between 35 to 45 kmph until May 23. In view of this, fishermen have been strictly advised not to venture into the sea during this period.
The district has already been experiencing frequent heavy downpours over the past three to four days. Rainfall has been particularly intense in coastal taluks, and a thick cloud cover has persisted across the region.
In a press release issued here, Deputy Commissioner K Lakshmi Priya said that certain parts of the district may witness thunderstorms with lightning and winds.
A District Emergency Operations Centre has been set up at the DC’s office to respond promptly to any mishaps, she said.
The public, especially parents, have been advised to keep children away from low-lying waterlogged areas, ponds, riverbanks, and seashores, as these places may pose a significant risk during heavy rain, the deputy commissioner said.
The DC further cautioned people not to take shelter under trees or near electric poles, and to avoid contact with broken power lines.
Citizens have also been urged not to stay in weak or old buildings during stormy weather.
In case of emergencies, residents can contact the District Disaster Management Control Room at 08382-229857 or 94835-11015, or reach out to tahsildar offices for assistance.