India: Heavy rain in Karnataka and Kerala states May 29 /update 1

Event

Heavy pre-monsoon rains continue to impact coastal areas of Karnataka and Kerala states as of Tuesday, May 29. Severe flooding was reported in the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts of Karnataka state, damaging homes and electric poles. Other low-lying areas in the abovementioned states were also impacted by the flooding, forcing the closure of shops and schools. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ordered that emergency assistance be provided in the affected areas. At least 12 people have been injured and dozens of homes destroyed by the flooding as of Tuesday. According to the India Meteorological Department, heavy to very heavy rain is expected to continue to impact Karnataka and Kerala states through Friday, June 1. Additional flooding and associated traffic disruptions are likely in low-lying areas.

Context

The India Meteorological Department announced on Tuesday, May 29, that monsoon season had started three days earlier than expected in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Monsoon season generally runs from June through September.

India's monsoon season is expected to bring normal levels of rainfall this year, with a 20 percent chance of above-average or below-average precipitation. However, southern states such as Karnataka and Kerala are predicted to receive below average rainfall during the season, potentially negatively affecting agriculture and water supplies.

Advice

Individuals in India, particularly in the abovementioned areas, are advised to monitor developments to weather forecasts as monsoon season approaches. 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 - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded.