Bidar, 24 September

As much of Karnataka is grappling with a severe drought, a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a cyclone, triggering heavy rains, thunderstorms and strong winds in several parts of Karnataka as well as neighbouring states. 

The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rains in various parts, including Bengaluru, until 25 September, as the storm has been named Cyclone Arnab. 

Massive showers on Thursday were recorded in Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada, as well as Yadgir. Rains were also recorded in Bagalkot, Koppal, Bidar, Raichur, Belagavi, Vijayapura and Kalaburagi districts.

Senior scientist Chanabasanagouda S Patil who works with the State Weather Department told Salar News, that heavy rain was to be expected in neighbouring states until 28 September. 

“The severe weather system has crossed the coast near Kalingapatnam in Andhra Pradesh's Srikakulam district,” he said, and noted that the IMD has issued a yellow alert for Uttara Kannada and several other you. 

In Andhra, strong winds of 50-70kmph are expected, he said. 

“The IMD said a trough extends from the centre of the deep depression over the west-central and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal through the central Bay of Bengal and northern Andaman Sea up to the Gulf of Thailand, extending up to 7.6 km above mean sea level. Due to this system, rainfall is occurring in various parts of the country," Patil explained. 

The heavy rains and lightning have already brought havoc over North Karnataka. 

On Tuesday, 44 sheep and goats died after being struck by lightning in Raichur and Bidar districts. 

In Kalaburagi, two women were killed after being struck by lightning while sitting under a tree and eating lunch, while in Bidar, a farmer died after being struck by lightning while working.