Red Alert Issued for Coastal Karnataka; Schools Shut as Heavy Rain Intensifies

Heavy monsoon showers continued to lash several parts of Karnataka on Tuesday, prompting authorities to step up precautionary measures across coastal and Malnad regions. The weather department has issued a Red Alert for Dakshina Kannada, while other districts including Udupi, Uttara Kannada, Kodagu, Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru and Hassan are also expected to receive widespread heavy rainfall.

With weather conditions worsening, district administrations have declared holidays for schools and colleges in several affected areas to ensure the safety of students. Educational institutions, including anganwadis, primary and high schools, residential schools and pre-university colleges, have remained closed in parts of Dakshina Kannada, Kodagu, Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga and Belagavi.

Authorities in Dakshina Kannada have warned that any institution violating the holiday order could face action under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act. Officials have urged educational institutions to strictly follow the directions issued by the district administration.

Meanwhile, Hassan district has imposed a complete ban on trekking activities in Sakleshpur until further notice. Continuous rain has increased the risk of landslides and flash floods in the hilly region, forcing officials to restrict access to waterfalls, rivers, streams, hill slopes and other vulnerable tourist locations.

The administration has also cautioned homestay operators and resort owners against allowing tourists into restricted areas. If visitors are taken into prohibited zones despite the ban, the operators concerned will be held responsible for any untoward incidents.

In Bengaluru, the forecast indicates generally cloudy skies with light to moderate rainfall during the day. Interior districts of Karnataka are also likely to witness scattered showers, and residents living near rivers, low-lying areas and landslide-prone regions have been advised to remain alert and follow official weather advisories until conditions improve.