Bengaluru is on high alert as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow warning for the city and much of Karnataka, forecasting heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds through May 15, 2025. The sudden onset of severe weather has prompted city officials and disaster management agencies to urge residents to take precautions, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated with official advisories. This wave of pre-monsoon activity is expected to bring relief from the recent heat but also raises concerns about local flooding, traffic disruptions, and infrastructure challenges.
The yellow alert issued for Bengaluru has led to increased vigilance among municipal authorities, who are actively monitoring drainage systems and water bodies prone to flooding. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has deployed additional teams to clear stormwater drains and remove debris that could obstruct water flow. These preventive measures aim to reduce the risk of waterlogging in low-lying areas, which have historically been vulnerable during heavy rains. Residents in flood-prone localities have been advised to stay alert and report any signs of water accumulation to local authorities promptly.
Power outages and disruptions to communication networks are also a concern during thunderstorms. The Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) has issued warnings to its field staff to be prepared for emergency repairs and restoration work. Backup power arrangements are being reviewed for critical infrastructure such as hospitals, traffic signals, and public transport hubs. Citizens are encouraged to keep emergency contact numbers handy and avoid handling electrical appliances during storms to ensure personal safety.
 "7 Urgent Alerts: Bengaluru Braces For Intense Rain And Thunderstorms As Imd Issues Yellow Warning")
IMD Issues Yellow Alert: Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms to Continue
The IMD’s yellow alert covers Bengaluru and extends across the coastal, northern, and southern interior regions of Karnataka. According to the forecast, the city will experience partly cloudy skies with light to moderate rain or thundershowers each day until May 15. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds with speeds reaching 30–40 km/h-and possibly up to 50 km/h in some areas-are expected to accompany the rainfall. The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) has echoed these warnings, predicting widespread showers and scattered thunderstorms across the state. Residents are advised to secure loose items around their homes and remain indoors during periods of heavy rain and lightning.
Traffic management is another critical area of focus as heavy rains can lead to slippery roads and reduced visibility, increasing the risk of accidents. The Bengaluru Traffic Police have intensified patrolling in key areas and are coordinating with the BBMP to manage traffic flow efficiently. Motorists are urged to drive cautiously, maintain safe distances, and avoid waterlogged routes. Public transport services, including buses and metro operations, are expected to continue but may experience delays due to weather conditions.
Schools and educational institutions in Bengaluru have been advised to remain alert to changing weather conditions. While no official closure has been announced, parents are encouraged to monitor weather updates and make informed decisions regarding their children’s commute. Some schools have already communicated contingency plans to ensure student safety, including early dismissal or remote learning options if necessary.
Bengaluru Weather: What Residents Should Expect
For Bengaluru, the weather pattern is marked by rapid changes, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours. The city woke up to cloudy skies on May 13, with minimum and maximum temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C. Humidity levels are expected to hover around 74%, and winds will generally blow from the west at 10 km/h, with gusts much higher during storms. The IMD and KSNDMC have warned of sudden shifts in weather, urging Bengalureans to be vigilant and prepared for quick changes in conditions. Patchy rain, cooler evenings, and the potential for localized flooding in low-lying areas are all possibilities during this alert period.
Health officials have highlighted the increased risk of waterborne diseases and vector-borne illnesses such as dengue and malaria following heavy rains. The Bengaluru Urban District Health Department has intensified mosquito control measures, including fogging and larvicidal treatments in affected areas. Residents are advised to eliminate stagnant water around their homes, use mosquito repellents, and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms of fever or infection appear.
The yellow alert period also presents an opportunity for community solidarity and preparedness. Neighborhood associations and resident welfare groups are mobilizing to support vulnerable populations, including the elderly and differently-abled, by ensuring they have access to essentials and emergency assistance. Public awareness campaigns are emphasizing the importance of following official advisories, avoiding unnecessary travel during storms, and helping neighbors in need to enhance overall community resilience
Statewide Impact: Yellow Alert Across Karnataka
The yellow alert is not limited to Bengaluru. It spans much of Karnataka, including coastal areas and both northern and southern interiors. The forecast predicts that heavy rain, thunderstorms, and winds will impact a wide swath of the state, with the most intense activity expected between May 12 and May 16. The Southwest Monsoon’s early advance into the South Andaman Sea and Southeast Bay of Bengal is influencing the region’s weather, contributing to the current spell of pre-monsoon rainfall. The KSNDMC has shared weather updates on social media, noting that scattered moderate to widespread rain with isolated thundershowers and lightning will persist in the coming days.
The city’s IT sector, a major contributor to Bengaluru’s economy, is also taking proactive steps in response to the yellow alert. Many technology firms have issued internal advisories encouraging employees to work from home if weather conditions worsen. IT parks and business campuses are reviewing their emergency protocols, ensuring that backup generators and drainage systems are operational to prevent disruptions to critical operations. This flexible approach not only safeguards employee well-being but also helps maintain business continuity during adverse weather events.
Safety Measures and Public Advisory
City authorities and disaster management teams have issued several advisories for the public. Residents are being asked to avoid outdoor activities during periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms, secure outdoor items such as flowerpots and banners, and remain alert for sudden weather changes. Commuters are advised to plan travel carefully, as traffic congestion and waterlogging are likely in vulnerable areas. The IMD and KSNDMC have also recommended that people stay tuned to official weather updates and warnings, especially as conditions can deteriorate rapidly during the late afternoon and evening hours.
Retailers and small businesses are bracing for a potential dip in foot traffic as residents heed warnings to stay indoors. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and essential service providers are stocking up on supplies to meet increased demand from customers who prefer to shop in advance of heavy rainfall. Delivery services are also adjusting their schedules, with some companies temporarily suspending operations in high-risk areas to ensure the safety of their personnel.
Weather Trends: Temperature, Humidity, and Wind
Bengaluru’s weather during this period is characterized by a mix of sun and rain, with daytime highs reaching up to 35.7°C and nighttime lows around 22.8°C. The city is experiencing high humidity, which may make the heat feel more intense during the day, but rainfall and cloud cover are expected to bring cooler temperatures in the evenings. Wind speeds are predicted to range from 19.4 km/h on average, with gusts as high as 50 km/h possible during thunderstorms. Visibility remains good, but heavy downpours could temporarily disrupt driving conditions. Residents are encouraged to carry umbrellas, raincoats, and stay hydrated throughout the week.
Environmental experts are closely monitoring the impact of the intense rainfall on Bengaluru’s lakes and green spaces. While the rain is expected to recharge groundwater levels and provide relief from the summer heat, there are concerns about the overflow of poorly maintained lakes and the risk of contamination due to runoff from urban areas. Conservationists are urging the city administration to use this period as an opportunity to address long-standing issues related to lake rejuvenation, solid waste management, and urban planning.
Monsoon Update: Early Signs and Regional Outlook
The current spell of rain is being influenced by the early progress of the Southwest Monsoon, which is advancing into the Andaman Sea and parts of the Bay of Bengal. Meteorologists expect the monsoon to further progress into the Maldives, the Comorin area, and the central Bay of Bengal in the coming days. This early activity is contributing to the widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across Karnataka, including Bengaluru. The IMD has indicated that this pattern is typical for pre-monsoon conditions in May, but the intensity and frequency of thunderstorms this year have been notable.
Community Response and Preparedness
The yellow alert has prompted a swift response from local authorities, with the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) and city agencies coordinating to monitor rainfall, manage waterlogging, and address emergency situations. Public health officials are also advising residents to take precautions against waterborne diseases and mosquito breeding, which can increase during periods of heavy rain. Schools and offices have been advised to review safety protocols, and emergency services are on standby to respond to any incidents caused by the severe weather.
As Bengaluru navigates this period of intense and unpredictable weather, residents are reminded to stay informed, exercise caution, and support community safety efforts. The city’s resilience will be tested as it faces the dual challenge of managing heavy rainfall and maintaining daily life, but proactive measures and public cooperation can help minimize risks and ensure a safe passage through the stormy days ahead.
Finally, meteorologists are reminding Bengalureans that such pre-monsoon weather patterns are not unusual for May, but the frequency and severity of thunderstorms in recent years may be linked to broader climate change trends. The IMD is continuing to monitor the situation closely and will update its advisories as new data becomes available. Residents are encouraged to rely on official channels for the latest weather information and to remain calm, prepared, and supportive of community efforts as the city navigates this challenging spell of weather.
Follow: Indian Meteorological Department
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