Bengaluru has experienced its wettest May on record, receiving
307.9 mm of rainfall by May 26, surpassing the previous high of
305.4 mm set in 2023.
This unprecedented rainfall is more than double the climatological average of
128.7 mm for May, based on IMD data from 1991 to 2020, signaling a significant shift in regional weather patterns.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a
red alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in Bengaluru and South Interior Karnataka, including Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Mysuru, and Kodagu districts, valid until May 27. Following this, an
orange alert will remain in effect for the rest of Karnataka through the end of May.
The IMD forecasts continued light to moderate showers with sustained winds of
40 to 50 kmph over the next 48 hours, accompanied by generally cloudy skies.
This intense pre-monsoon rainfall has caused waterlogging, infrastructure strain, and traffic disruptions in Bengaluru, though it has also replenished reservoirs and raised groundwater levels, providing temporary relief from water scarcity.
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has identified
210 flood-prone areas, of which
166 have been mitigated so far.
Experts note a worrying trend: four of Bengaluru's five wettest Mays have occurred in the last decade, highlighting increasing rainfall variability and potential climate change impacts.
"The sharp rise in rainfall points to a worrying trend," underscoring the need for enhanced urban planning and disaster preparedness.
The monsoon officially entered Kerala and Karnataka on May 24, intensifying the rainfall pattern.
Bengaluru's maximum temperature has remained cooler than usual at
26.7 degrees Celsius, compared to the normal
32 degrees Celsius, due to persistent cloud cover and rain.
This record rainfall season, with
340.6 mm recorded in Bengaluru Urban district during the pre-monsoon period (March 1 to May 26), marks a departure of
155 mm above normal levels, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of this year's weather.
The IMD's alerts and forecasts aim to prepare residents and authorities for continued heavy rains and associated risks in the coming days.
Bengaluru has recorded its wettest May ever with 307.9 mm of rainfall, surpassing the previous record of 305.4 mm set in 2023. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heavy rains in Bengaluru and South Interior Karnataka till May 27, forecasting continued showers and strong winds.
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