Karnataka Weather Update: IMD Flags Hail Risk as Bengaluru Weather Disrupts City After Heatwave Break

After days of scorching summer heat, Bengaluru weather finally got a much-needed revamp as the city yesterday experienced its first major spell of rainfall this season. The sudden downpour on April 29 brought down temperatures and provided relief to people across Karnataka, many of whom had been struggling with rising heat levels.

Bengaluru rain, along with strong winds,, lightning, and even hail in some areas, made a sharp change in weather conditions.

However, what began as a relief soon turned into chaos across several parts of the city. Heavy thunderstorms triggered widespread waterlogging, bringing traffic to a near standstill in key areas such as Silk Board Junction, Outer Ring Road (ORR), and Whitefield. Commuters were stranded for hours as roads were submerged and visibility dropped sharply.

Additionally a tragic incident took place where a compound wall collapse at Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital claimed seven lives, including two children.

IMD forecast For Today April 30: Thunderstorms, lightning and hail likely in parts of Karnataka.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), dry and sunny conditions are likely to continue across Karnataka during the morning hours over the next few days. However, Karnataka weather activity is expected to intensify after noon, with partly cloudy skies and the possibility of light to moderate rain in isolated areas. These showers may come along with thunderstorms, lightning, and even hailstorms in certain regions, particularly in south-interior Karnataka.

As per the The 7-day forecast for Karnataka Weather, April 30 and May 1st could see thunderstorm and lightning activity across coastal, north interior, and south interior Karnataka.

A hailstorm warning has also been issued for parts of south interior Karnataka on April 30, pointing to the risk of intense localised weather events. From May 2 onwards, most regions are expected to see relatively stable conditions with no major warnings, although isolated rain activity may continue.

Heavy rainfall was recorded across Bengaluru, Mandya and surrounding districts.

Rainfall data from Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre shows that the intensity of the recent spell across southern Karnataka. Bengaluru East (Sampangi Ramanagar) recorded the highest rainfall at 92 mm in the 24-hour period ending 7:30 AM on April 30. Other areas such as Cottonpet (78 mm), Chamrajpet (77 mm), and Hebbal (56 mm) also witnessed heavy showers.

Beyond Bengaluru, Mandya district emerged as a major hotspot, with Shivapura receiving 74.5 mm, followed by Hulikere (55 mm) and several other stations recording over 40 mm rainfall. Districts like Ramanagara and Hassan also reported moderate to heavy rainfall ranging between 30 mm and 57 mm.

Waterlogging & Traffic Disruptions Reported.

While the rainfall in Bengaluru and other parts of Karnataka has brought huge relief from the heat, it also exposed the city's vulnerabilities. Several low-lying areas experienced waterlogging, nearly 50 trees were uprooted, and emergency teams were deployed across Bengaluru to manage the situation. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious during ongoing thunderstorm activity and to stay updated with official weather alerts.