Karnataka Issues Rain Advisory: Avoid Bridges, Rivers, and Selfies

Rapid Summary

• The outflow from the KRS reservoir near Mysuru has been increased to 80,000 cusecs starting at 10 a.m. on August 18, 2025, due to heavy rains in its catchment areas in Kodagu district.
• Earlier on the same day (8 a.m.), the outflow was recorded at 31,550 cusecs as reservoir levels reached 124.54 feet (maximum level: 124.8 feet).
• Authorities have warned residents in low-lying areas to evacuate and banned activities such as visiting riverbanks, bridges, swimming in rivers, and taking selfies.
• Karnataka’s Water Resources Department indicated that the discharge rate might be further raised if necessary.
• An orange alert was issued by IMD for Kodagu district predicting heavy rain accompanied by strong winds for August 18.
• As a precautionary measure due to severe weather conditions, all anganwadis, primary schools, high schools, and pre-university colleges were closed for holiday in Kodagu district.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The increase of water discharge from the KRS reservoir highlights critical challenges posed by monsoonal rainfall variability that is typical of India’s climate. Adequate precautions taken by authorities-such as prohibitions along riverbanks and evacuation orders-reflect their preparedness amidst rising flood risks. Though, heightened vigilance will be essential if discharge rates escalate further or neighboring districts experience similar conditions.

The declaration of an orange alert underscores concerns regarding extreme weather patterns perhaps tied to climate change effects-a matter requiring long-term hydrological planning strategies nationally.Additionally, school closures prioritize public safety but may temporarily disrupt education systems within affected regions.

Overall preparedness shows responsiveness toward immediate risks; however sustained regional coordination across reservoirs like KRS could become vital amid increasing unpredictability during monsoon seasons.

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