Karnataka Braces for Heatwave and Water Stress as CM Orders Districts to Act

Large parts of Karnataka are heading into an intense summer, with soaring temperatures and declining water levels raising concerns across the state. The situation has prompted Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to direct district authorities to take immediate action.

In Bengaluru, temperatures have already reached 36 degrees Celsius and are expected to hover between 35 and 37 degrees in the coming days, which is above the seasonal average. The India Meteorological Department has forecast mostly clear skies with little relief from the heat.

Reviewing the situation on April 17, the Chief Minister instructed all Deputy Commissioners to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply. He warned that any failure would be taken seriously, especially as several districts are likely to face a monsoon shortfall. He also said there are sufficient funds available and directed key departments to work together to tackle the issue.

The rising heat is already affecting daily life and livelihoods. Vendors and small traders are struggling to cope with the weather. Milk suppliers are having to invest more in cooling methods to prevent spoilage, while vegetable sellers report that produce dries out quickly, leading to losses and reduced customer footfall during peak daytime hours.

Weather data shows that dry conditions are expected to continue across much of the state, with only scattered and light rainfall predicted. Northern districts such as Bagalkote, Vijayapura, Kalaburagi and Bidar are under heatwave alerts, with temperatures climbing as high as 42 degrees Celsius in some areas.

The lack of rainfall has been significant. South interior Karnataka has recorded an 87 percent deficit, while north interior regions have seen an 85 percent shortfall. Coastal areas have also reported below normal rainfall, though the deficit there is relatively lower.

Experts attribute the prolonged dry spell to an anti cyclonic system affecting Karnataka and nearby regions earlier this month, which limited rainfall activity. Although the overall seasonal rainfall since March remains above average, recent weeks have seen sharp declines.

Water storage is also being closely monitored. At the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam, levels have dropped below 100 feet. The reservoir remains a vital source of drinking water for Bengaluru and Mysuru, supplying water daily to both cities.

Officials say current reserves should meet drinking water needs until June, but caution that continued dry conditions could increase pressure on resources.

With temperatures expected to remain high and rainfall uncertain, authorities are focusing on preparedness to ensure water security and minimise disruption to daily life.