Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi

Mangaluru/Udupi, Apr 8: A steady rise in temperatures has been observed over the past few days, even as wind intensity has increased across the coastal region.

For nearly a week, winds have been blowing during mornings and nights, causing rain-bearing clouds to disperse. The absence of cloud cover in recent days has resulted in a lack of rainfall.

During the pre-monsoon season, winds usually blow from the Bay of Bengal towards the Arabian Sea, aiding cloud formation and increasing chances of rain. However, in recent weeks, winds have been blowing in the opposite direction—from the Arabian Sea towards the Bay of Bengal. As a result, clouds formed over the coastal region are drifting towards Tamil Nadu, triggering rainfall there instead.

This shift has led to fluctuating temperatures in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, with afternoon temperatures crossing 38°C. The heat intensifies from morning itself, and though scattered clouds appear in the evening suggesting possible rain, precipitation has not occurred.

Despite the current weather changes, there is a likelihood of rainfall returning to the coastal region within the next week. According to pre-monsoon rainfall data from March 1 till date, Dakshina Kannada district has received 34.7 mm of rainfall, while Udupi has recorded 32.1 mm. Overall, the coastal region has received 26.1 mm of rainfall.

There is also concern over the possibility of heatwave conditions if temperatures continue to rise. As a precautionary measure, a five-bed ward has been set up at Wenlock Hospital in Mangaluru. Additionally, two-bed treatment rooms have been made ready at taluk hospitals in Beltangady, Sullia, Puttur, and Bantwal, equipped with medicines, air conditioning, and other emergency facilities.

The India Meteorological Department has forecast that similar hot and humid conditions are likely to continue along the coast from April 9 to 11.