Karnataka CM Issues Urgent Flood Alert Amid Rising Monsoon Threats

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has issued an urgent flood alert, directing officials to monitor rain-affected areas and implement relief measures as monsoon rains intensify across the state.

Karnataka CM Issues Urgent Flood Alert Amid Rising Monsoon Threats

Bengaluru, May 29, 2025 – In response to the escalating monsoon rains and the associated risks of floods and landslides, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has issued an urgent flood alert. He has instructed district ministers and secretaries to conduct on-ground inspections in rain-affected areas to oversee relief operations and ensure the safety of residents.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts continued rainfall across the state, with a potential decrease in intensity expected from June 3. As of Monday, 45 homes have been destroyed and 1,385 partially damaged due to the heavy rains. Compensation has been disbursed to 99% of eligible families, according to the Chief Minister’s office.

Comprehensive Measures Under the Flood Alert

To bolster disaster preparedness, the state government has allocated Rs 973 crore in personal deposit accounts across districts and taluks for disaster management. The total government grant stands at Rs 97,352 lakh. A total of 170 taluks have been identified as vulnerable to floods and landslides, prompting the establishment of 2,296 shelters. In Bengaluru alone, 201 flood-prone locations have been mapped for close monitoring.

The IMD has issued a red alert for seven districts: Mangaluru, Karwar, Udupi, Bagalkot, Belagavi, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga. An orange alert is in effect for Kodagu, Hassan, and Vijayapura, while a yellow alert covers Bidar, Dharwad, Kalaburagi, Raichur, Yadgir, Ballari, Chamarajanagar, Davanagere, Mysuru, and Vijayanagara.

Flood Alert Intensifies in Yadgir District

In Yadgir district, heavy rains originating from Maharashtra’s Western Ghats have led to rising water levels in the Krishna and Bhima rivers, creating a flood-like situation. Authorities have responded by releasing water from local barrages and issuing flood alerts to residents in the affected areas.

Statewide Coordination and Upcoming Review Meetings

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has directed Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh to convene a high-level review meeting on May 30 and 31. The meeting will include district deputy commissioners, zilla panchayat CEOs, and secretaries in charge of the districts to streamline disaster response and coordinate relief operations effectively.The Times of India

Public Advisory Amid the Flood Alert

The government urges residents, especially those in identified flood-prone areas, to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines issued by local authorities. Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay informed through official channels, and cooperate with emergency services during this period of heightened flood alert.

As Karnataka navigates the challenges posed by the early monsoon, the government’s proactive measures under the flood alert aim to mitigate risks and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.