India: Lakes overflow near Bengaluru Oct. 11

Event

Reports say Binnamangala and Nelamangala lakes on the outskirts of Bengaluru overflowed early on Wednesday, October 11, flooding over 140 homes. The lakes reached critical capacity after the area received 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain in the preceding days. The Bengaluru-Tumakuru highway and the Bengaluru-Kanakapura Road were also flooded, and both experienced heavy traffic for several hours on Wednesday. No deaths or injuries have been reported as a result of the flooding.

Localized transportation disruptions may persist in the Nelamangala area in the coming days as further rains are forecast until at least Wednesday, October 18.

Context

Torrential rain is common in India during the monsoon season, which runs between June and September; however, heavy rains do regularly occur in October. Bengaluru normally receives an average of 168 mm (6.6 in) of rain for the entire month of October.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to follow all instructions as issued by local authorities (e.g., evacuation orders), monitor local weather forecasts, and anticipate transportation disruptions and potentially hazardous conditions.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult. Finally, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, wear boots and try to avoid any contact with the water. All items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and any foodstuffs discarded.