Three dead, over 500 homes flooded after torrential rain hits Bengaluru, India

An unusual pre-monsoon downpour, driven by two converging low-pressure systems and associated thunderstorms, brought intense rainfall to Bengaluru, capital of the Indian state of Karnataka, starting on May 18.

The city received 130 mm (5.1 inches) of rain over a 12-hour period, marking the second-highest single-day rainfall in May in the past decade. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded 105.5 mm (4.2 inches) in the 24 hours ending at 08:30 local time on May 19.

Three people were killed in the flooding in Bengaluru: a 63-year-old man and a 12-year-old boy who were electrocuted while attempting to pump out floodwater at Madhuvana Apartment in BTM Layout, and a 32-year-old woman who died in Whitefield after a compound wall collapsed. Two other people died in other parts of Karnataka.

More than 500 homes were flooded across Bengaluru, with the low-lying Sai Layout area among the worst affected. Around 300 houses were partially submerged there as water levels rose to chest height, forcing 150 residents to evacuate.

In Kote Layout, Kengeri, about 100 homes were affected, resulting in significant damage to household belongings.

Severe waterlogging was also reported at Manyata Tech Park and Silk Board Junction, disrupting traffic and operations. Other affected areas included BTM Layout, Whitefield, and Vrishabhavathi Valley in RR Nagar.

Infrastructure damage included 20 lakes at risk of overflowing and the closure of several underpasses. Across the city, 27 trees were uprooted and 43 large branches fell, blocking roads and pathways. Floodwaters also swept away 44 four-wheelers and 93 two-wheelers.

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) is conducting rescue operations using boats and tractor-trailers, while dinghies are delivering essential supplies to isolated communities. However, a reported shortage of boats is hindering evacuation efforts, particularly in Sai Layout.

The IMD issued an Orange alert, predicting heavy rainfall for the next five days in Bagalkot, Bangalore Urban, and Bangalore Rural.

References:

¹ 3 dead, 500 homes flooded, streets submerged: Marooned Bengaluru braces for 5 more days of heavy rain – The Times of India – May 20, 2025

² Bengaluru rains highlights | How BBMP managed rain fury across flooded city – Deccan Herald – May 21, 2025

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

This author does not have any more posts.