After constant heavy rainfall in Karnataka’s Shivamogga district, the district administration declared a holiday for all schools and colleges as a precautionary measure.
The decision came after relentless rains caused waterlogging, overflowing rivers, and compromised the safety of students and staff at institutions in Karnataka's Shivamogga district, the district administration said.
According to district officials, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted continued heavy to very heavy rainfall in Malnad and coastal Karnataka. Due to the risk of flooding, landslides, and falling trees, authorities decided to stop educational activities to minimize the risk.
The holiday covers government, aided, and private schools, primary schools, high schools, PU colleges, degree colleges, and other educational establishments in the district.
Residents of low-lying and landslide-prone areas, in particular, should be on guard and avoid unnecessary trips, officials said.
Heavy showers over the past few days have significantly increased water levels in rivers, streams, and reservoirs across Shivamogga. Some roads have been reported to be waterlogged, and traffic movement has been affected in some areas.
Parents are advised to keep children indoors and avoid going near rivers, lakes, canals, or flooded roads, the district administration says. Farmers and residents are warned to keep an eye on weather updates and follow the advice given by local officials.
The IMD has issued weather alerts for a number of districts in Karnataka and warned of thunderstorms with strong winds and heavy rain. The coastal and Malnad regions will receive the heaviest rainfall, and authorities will be closely watching the weather situation.
Emergency services are on standby, the public works department is clearing blocked drains, and roads will be open to all. Electricity departments are being instructed to deal with power disruptions caused by strong winds and heavy rain.
Monsoon rains have brought much-needed water to reservoirs and agricultural fields in Karnataka. However, the current wet weather spell has made it more likely to lead to localized flooding and infrastructure damage.
Residents should also keep updated with official weather bulletins and district administration announcements. Travelers planning to visit Shivamogga or nearby hill stations should check road conditions before traveling.
The district administration emphasized that closing schools is only a precautionary measure to protect students’ safety. School and college reopening will depend on the weather and other factors in the coming days.
